Seahorse Air Ceylon has proposed establishing a Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft manufacturing facility and presented its plans to the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) as it seeks regulatory approval to begin the project.
Representatives of the Sri Lankan startup met the Director General of Civil Aviation and CAASL Chief Executive Officer, Capt. Daminda Rambukwella to outline their proposal. The company plans to develop VTOL aircraft manufacturing capabilities as part of the emerging Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector.
According to CAASL, Seahorse Air Ceylon has already registered with the Board of Investment (BOI) and is now seeking the approvals needed to begin the research, development and testing phase of the project.
During the meeting, CAASL officials explained the regulatory framework, certification process and aviation safety requirements that the company must meet before the project can move forward. They said the project must comply with both national and international aviation standards.
Project Enters Regulatory Process
Capt. Rambukwella welcomed the proposal and commended the company’s efforts to introduce new aviation technologies. He also reaffirmed CAASL’s commitment to encouraging innovation while maintaining high standards of aviation safety, security and regulatory oversight.
CAASL said the proposed project could contribute to the future growth of the aviation industry and support the development of the Advanced Air Mobility sector.
The Authority added that it will continue working with industry stakeholders to support the safe, secure and sustainable development of emerging aviation technologies.
VTOL aircraft can take off and land vertically without the need for conventional airport runways. The technology is attracting growing global interest for applications such as short-distance passenger transport and other advanced air mobility services.
Last modified: July 26, 2026
