ALMA Air Receives Provisional Operating Permit for Colombia’s First Amphibious Airline Operations

Provisional operating permit moves Colombia closer to the return of seaplane services.

Colombia’s Civil Aviation Authority (Aerocivil) has granted ALMA Air S.A.S. a Provisional Operating Permit as a non-scheduled public air carrier, marking a significant step toward the return of amphibious aviation services in the country.

The approval allows ALMA Air to continue advancing toward commercial operations for passenger, cargo, and mail air taxi services, following more than two years of technical preparation, operational testing, and coordination with Colombian authorities.

The company’s planned amphibious aviation model is designed to connect regions that may have limited access to traditional airport infrastructure, while creating new opportunities for tourism and regional connectivity.

“The decision confirms that the company has satisfied the requirements necessary for the issuance of the Provisional Operating Permit and represents a significant step forward in the regulatory process, enabling ALMA Air to continue advancing toward the commencement of its commercial operations.” – ALMA Air

More than 75 water operations completed during testing

As part of the approval process, ALMA Air conducted an operational testing programme in Ayapel, Mompox, and the Guatapé Reservoir, evaluating the procedures required for amphibious aircraft operations in Colombia.

According to the company, the programme included more than 75 water takeoffs and landings, completed without accidents, incidents, injuries, aircraft damage, or harm to third parties.

The testing evaluated key operational areas that include flight procedures, risk management protocols, coordination with relevant authorities, and the implementation of the company’s Safety Management System (SMS).

ALMA Air said the exercises also provided technical information to support the development of coordination mechanisms between aviation authorities and other institutions responsible for activities on inland waterways.

A new transport option for Colombia’s regions

Amphibious aircraft can operate from both conventional runways and bodies of water, creating potential connectivity solutions for destinations where traditional airport infrastructure may be limited.

ALMA Air’s proposed operations are focused on expanding access to riverside communities, tourism destinations, and other areas where alternative transport options could support economic activity.

The company believes amphibious aviation could complement Colombia’s existing air transport network by providing greater flexibility for regional travel.

Two years of regulatory and technical development

The provisional permit follows an extended development process involving private investment, aircraft testing, regulatory reviews, and collaboration with government institutions.

ALMA Air recognized the work of Aerocivil, the Ministry of Transport, inspectors, technical teams, and other public officials involved in supporting the initiative.

The company will continue working through the remaining operational steps required before commercial services begin, as it moves toward introducing amphibious air transport as a new option within Colombia’s aviation sector.