Castellammare di Stabia – A new step forward for the Seagull, the innovative seaplane designed by Novotech in collaboration with the Department of Industrial Engineering at the Federico II University of Naples. This morning, in the waters of the Commercial Port of Castellammare di Stabia, the aircraft underwent a delicate phase of watertightness testing, a crucial step in the qualification process for operational use.
The operation, made possible thanks to the authorization of the Castellammare Port Authority and the Central Tyrrhenian Sea Port System Authority, was coordinated by Novotech together with its partner companies Yes Automation & Maintenance Srl and Trasporti Iannario Srl, with the technical supervision of Stabia Main Port.
The maneuvers were closely followed by Commander CF (CP) Andrea Pellegrino and CC (CP) Luca Giotta, confirming the strong connection between institutions, industry and the territory.
Once in service, the Seagull will be equipped with the FBEYE system, developed by the space company ALI SpA – Gruppo Space Factory in partnership with Euro.soft Srl and TopView Srl. This cutting-edge technology can identify the starting point of fires from above, a valuable tool for preventing and combating forest fires. The project is part of the European ARTES 4.0 program, funded by ESA with funding from the ASI.
A tradition that flies again
The initiative is not just a technical test, but also a symbol of Castellammare's rebirth in the aeronautical and aerospace sector. The city boasts a long tradition: it was home to AVIS (formerly Avionica Stabiese), a postwar leader in the construction of next-generation seaplanes.
In 2012, it hosted the Space Expo Gala Dinner at the Reggia di Quisisana, welcoming over 300 international industry leaders, including managers, astronauts, and technicians. More recently, in 2024, the first Italian Young Space Hub, an incubator for student startups working in space innovation, was inaugurated at the Liceo Scientifico "F. Severi."
The voices of the protagonists
"Today is an important day for the Seagull and its qualification activities. I have found an extremely collaborative atmosphere with the institutions, particularly the Port Authority, whom I thank, and with our industrial partners, starting with the Space Factory Group," said Professor Leonardo Lecce, founder and CEO of Novotech.
This enthusiasm was shared by Luigi Carrino, president of the Campania Aerospace District: "The Seagull with the FBEYE system is a result that confirms the innovative strength of Campania's companies. It demonstrates how research and technology can translate into concrete solutions for environmental safety. This project complements other DAC initiatives, such as Mercurio for monitoring hydrogeological instability near railway infrastructure, or Sirimap for identifying plastics in the sea."
Innovation, territory and future
The Seagull's successful test run in Castellammare di Stabia is more than just a technical achievement: it's a sign that Campania, with its strong shipbuilding and aerospace traditions, continues to be a hub of innovation, combining engineering, the environment, and safety. A historic legacy that takes flight again, looking to the future with new wings.
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