Get ready to soar above Kerala’s breathtaking landscapes! On November 11th, the state is set to unveil a revolutionary seaplane service, promising to enhance tourism and connectivity like never before. The inaugural event will be graced by Shri PA Mohamed Riyas, the Minister for Tourism and Public Works, at the majestic Bolgatty Palace in Kochi.
This new service, a brainchild of the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN, will bridge the gap between Kerala’s airports and its picturesque backwaters. The seaplane, a sleek ‘de Havilland Canada’ aircraft, will arrive at Kochi International Airport on November 10th, making its way to the Bolgatty Palace’s waterdrome by 3:30 PM, where it will be welcomed by the Department of Tourism.
The service, a joint venture between a Switzerland-based private company and SpiceJet, follows successful trials in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Rigorous inspections and surveys by the Cochin Port Trust, Indian Navy, and other stakeholders have ensured the readiness of the service. This initiative is set to revolutionize the way tourists explore Kerala’s diverse landscapes, offering a unique and efficient way to travel.
Shri Riyas emphasized the importance of enhanced connectivity for the growth of Kerala’s tourism industry. He highlighted the strategic importance of this new service, stating, “The launch of heli-tourism is a significant step in this direction, making our destinations more accessible for quick, seamless travel. Additionally, the expansion of motorable roads connecting even the remotest parts of Kerala ensures that tourists can now reach far-off locations with ease, enjoying scenic routes along the way.”
Shri Riyas went on to explain the larger vision: “Our efforts also extend to the development of national highways, as well as coastal and hill highways, which will further boost connectivity. Seaplane services will soon complement these efforts, positioning Kerala as a well-connected destination through a robust network of transportation channels—including waterways, highways, helicopters, and now, seaplanes. These initiatives underscore our commitment to making Kerala a tourism-friendly state with unmatched connectivity.”
The Tourism Secretary, Shri K Biju, highlighted the service’s potential to enable tourists to cover more destinations efficiently. He further stated that the service is expected to be promoted internationally to attract a larger influx of visitors.
Tourism Director Smt. Sikha Surendran added that the service will also be a boon for domestic tourism, especially in remote areas primarily accessible by waterways.
This ambitious project aims to connect Kerala’s four airports with potential waterdromes, making the most of the state’s abundant water bodies. Discussions are underway to establish additional waterdromes in several locations, including Kovalam, Ashtamudi, Punnamada, Kumarakom, Vembanad, Malambuzha, and Bekal. These seaplanes, available in various sizes (9, 15, 20, and 30-seaters), offer a unique opportunity for passengers to embark directly from water surfaces.
With the launch of this innovative seaplane service, Kerala is poised to become a top destination for travelers seeking a blend of scenic beauty, cultural immersion, and unparalleled connectivity. This initiative promises to usher in a new era of tourism in Kerala, attracting a wider audience and showcasing the state’s unparalleled charm.
