Elfly Group appoints Susan Ying to board

Norwegian electric seaplane developer Elfly Group has appointed Dr. Susan Ying to its board of directors.

Announced at the Future Opportunities for Seaplanes & Amphibious Aviation Conference this week in Miami, Ying is renowned figure in aerospace innovation and sustainability. Across her four decades-plus of experience, Ying has spent time at NASA, Boeing, COMAC and the Aerospace Technology Working Group. This included earning a spot as a NASA Astronaut Candidate finalist and serving as senior vice president at Ampaire. 

As both an investor and board member, she will play a key role in driving the Noemi all-electric seaplane project and shaping the future of sustainable aviation, according to Eric Lithun, CEO of Elfly Group. 

“I am truly excited to be part of this journey working with Eric and his stellar team,” said Ying. “The NOEMI project is exactly what the aviation industry needs — an innovative, fully electric, zero-emission aircraft that will set a new standard for regional air mobility. I have followed Elfly’s progress closely and believe deeply in the technology, the team, and the game-changing potential of this project.”

 The company’s flagship project, Noemi — which stands for No Emissions — is a 9-seat all-electric seaplane forecasted to enter commercial service by 2030.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Dr. Susan Ying to the team. Her expertise and vision for sustainable aviation aligns perfectly with our mission,” said Lithun. “Having Susan on board is a major milestone for NOEMI — the world’s first fully electric seaplane — and for Elfly as an aviation Group.”