Chennai-Based Startup’s ‘E-Flying Boat’ To Offer Zero-Carbon Chennai-Kolkata Travel In 3 Hrs For Just ₹ 600

Can you imagine travelling from Chennai to Kolkata in 3 hours for only Rs 600? Of course, that’s even cheaper than an AC three-tier train ticket!

IIT-Madras-incubated startup Waterfly Technologies is developing an E-flying boat or a Wing-in-Ground (WIG) craft which will soon transport passengers and cargo across coastal regions. The startup aims to enable extremely cost-effective Passenger and Cargo Transport while bridging the gap in capability requirements in Distributed Warfare.

What is the E-flying boat or a Wing-in-Ground (WIG) craft?

At Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, Waterfly Technologies demonstrated the E-flying boat design, with an upcoming prototype. Also known as electric seagliders, these crafts provide a sustainable alternative to traditional air travel and ferries.

The CEO and co-founder of Waterfly Technologies, Harish Rajesh told Moneycontrol: “Travelling from Kolkata to Chennai via WIG craft will cost just Rs 600 per seat for a 1,600 km journey, far cheaper than an AC three-tier train ticket, which costs over Rs 1,500.”

“The prototype will feature the same design we have developed, scaled up to accommodate a four-tonne payload. By April, we will have a 100 kg prototype. By the end of the year, we plan to develop a one-tonne prototype. We’re building a full-scale version with a four-ton payload and a 20-seat capacity by next year.” the CEO added.

“This ground-effect aircraft takes off from water, flies at an altitude of around four meters, and maintains that height throughout its journey. It leverages ground effect for greater efficiency, allowing for aircraft-like speeds,” he further explained.

Unlike conventional aircraft, the WIG craft have a flatter design improving the aerodynamic efficiency. 

“Four meters is the most efficient altitude, but the craft can fly up to 150 meters,” claimed Rajesh.

The all-electric sea glider combines the speed, comfort, and navigation of an aircraft with the manoeuvrability and affordability of a boat. It has a top speed of 500 kmph and can skim over water on a cushion of air generated by its lifting surfaces which removes the need for airport infrastructure.

Currently, it is working for battery power with a 500 km range, but the startup is developing a hydrogen-electric variant capable of travelling 2,000 km.

“Battery technology has advanced significantly, with fully electric aircraft already in operation. In emergencies, this craft is safer than a conventional aircraft as it can land anywhere on water,” CEO Rajesh added.

As claimed by the company, though the craft is designed for water, it can also fly over ice, deserts, or any obstacle-free terrain.

The IIT Madras-funded startup is now exploring defence funding. 

“We are seeking additional funding to build a full-scale prototype and develop the craft for cargo and surveillance applications. This will allow for quicker deployment, and once proven, we will expand to civilian use,” Harish Rajesh said.

Mentored by eminent defence veterans and IIT Madras professors, Waterfly Technologies envisions future routes such as Chennai-Singapore with a much larger version capable of intercontinental travel by 2029.

The team that built the first electric race car at IIT Madras is targeting certification from the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) under the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) by 2026.

It is expecting the first intercontinental route—Dubai to Los Angeles— by 2029.

Also read: Trump and Modi Announces Launch of U.S.-India TRUST; Both Nations To Work Together On AI & Other Sectors (startuppedia.in)