Kerala is all set to make waves by launching India’s first seaplane service, adding a new feather in the state’s tourism cap. P.A. Mohamed Riyas, Kerala’s Tourism and Public Works Minister, will flag off the grand launch on Monday.
Here’s what we know so far.
Collaboration Done Right!
A Switzerland-based private company and SpiceJet have partnered to power India’s first seaplane service.
When and Where to Catch India’s First Seaplane Service
The seaplane will land at Cochin International Airport on Monday at 2 p.m., then fly to the water aerodrome at Bolgatty Palace in Kochi. After the launch, a welcome event for the crew and passengers will take place at Mattupetty Dam in Idukki.
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Part of the RCS-UDAN Scheme
Under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN, this seaplane service connects Kerala’s airports to key water bodies. The Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) is a program aimed at making air travel more affordable and accessible to India’s remote and underserved areas. Thanks to this initiative, Kerala’s breathtaking backwaters will now be easier to access, giving visitors exciting new ways to explore the state.
Minister Riyas shared his excitement, saying, “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.”
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Water Aerodromes Coming Soon
The state has big plans for the seaplane project. Following Bolgatty and Mattupetty, Kerala plans to establish water aerodromes in places like Kovalam, Ashtamudi, Punnamada, Kumarakom, Vembanad, Malambuzha, and Bekal. Each of these locations are unique on their own and soon, seaplanes will make them even easier to reach.
Ahead of the launch, officials did final checks, surveys, and inspections. Now, everything is set. India’s first seaplane service is a proud milestone for Kerala. This is our state stepping forward, offering new ways to experience its charm and culture. Kerala is setting trends and giving Malayalis one more reason to boast.
