Kolkata to Chennai in 3 hours at Rs 600, all about the technology that makes 1,600 Km distance so near, top speed to be…

Waterfly’s sea-gliders could make a major transformation in India’s transportation landscape, especially in Air travel.

At Aero India 2025, Harsh Rajesh, co-founder of Waterfly Technologies, introduced unique technology for Aircraft. The company, made at IIT Madras, plans to deploy electric sea-gliders, or wing-in-ground (WIG) crafts, which claims to cut travel time from Kolkata to Chennai to just 3 hours at a cost of Rs 600.

Game-Changer For Long-Distance Travel

The 1,600-km journey between Kolkata and Chennai needs high value of fuel consumption in commercial aircraft, which require up to 2.5-3 tonnes of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) which cost Rs 95,000 per kilolitre. However, Waterfly’s innovative sea-glider technology claims that it will reduce fuel costs and reduce air fare accordingly.

How Does Technology Work?

At the event, co-founder Keshav Chaudhary explained the mechanics of the sea-glider. The craft will fly at an altitude of just 4 meters above the water’s surface, benefits of the ‘ground effect’ This can reduce wing drag while creating an air cushion, improving lift and overall efficiency.

The craft’s design avoids the need for high-altitude robustness and reduces manufacturing costs. It operates from water and eliminates the need for traditional runways, reducing pressure on engines and enhancing performance.

The project is in its initial stages, with the following milestones byt this year, it may complete a 100-kg prototype, followed by a 1-tonne prototype by year-end. By 2026 it is expected to introduce a 20-seater sea-glider model capable of regular routes between Chennai and Kolkata.

The project has received financial backing from IIT Madras and aims to secure additional funding, including potential investments from the defence sector.

Anand Mahindra Praise Technology

Businessman Anand Mahindra has praised the initiative, highlighting IIT Madras’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation. He wrote on social media platform X, “IIT Madras promises to rival Silicon Valley in terms of nurturing startups! This project not only capitalizes on India’s vast waterways but also boasts a stunning design. Design Rules!”