The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a licence to SkyHop Aviation, making it India's first seaplane airline. The carrier will begin its operations in Lakshadweep, where seaplanes will link the scattered islands with the mainland. Seaplanes can take off from and land on water, so they suit island territories that lack large runways. The move is expected to improve connectivity for residents and support tourism in the Union Territory. For exam purposes, note that DGCA is India's civil aviation regulator and that SkyHop is the first airline licensed exclusively for seaplane services.