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Kerala, renowned for its picturesque backwaters and serene landscapes, has taken a significant step towards enhancing its tourism infrastructure with the launch of a much-anticipated seaplane service. The inaugural flight, operated by a Swiss-based private company in partnership with SpiceJet, landed at Bolgatty Waterdrome on Sunday evening, marking a momentous occasion for the state's tourism sector.
The 'De Havilland Canada' seaplane, which arrived after successful trial runs in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, commenced its journey from Vijayawada, refueling at Cochin International Airport before gracefully landing at the waterdrome, where it was greeted with a celebratory water salute. The seaplane service, which falls under the Ministry of Civil Aviation's Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN, aims to bridge the gap in connectivity across Kerala's four airports and its renowned backwaters, offering affordable fares for a wider audience.
The service is set to revolutionize travel within Kerala, offering a unique and scenic experience for tourists. The seaplanes, with capacities ranging from 9 to 30 seats, will operate from strategically located waterdromes, floating platforms on water bodies, allowing passengers to embark on their journey directly from the water. The service promises a significant reduction in travel time, with the goal of keeping travel time between any two destinations under 30 minutes.
This innovative transportation initiative is expected to create a ripple effect in the tourism sector, generating employment opportunities and fostering new enterprises. With the introduction of seaplanes, Kerala is poised to attract a larger influx of tourists, further boosting its economy and contributing to the overall development of the state. The service is expected to cater to a diverse range of travelers, from leisure seekers to business professionals, providing a convenient and efficient mode of transport across various destinations.
Beyond the initial routes between Bolgatty Palace and Mattupetty Dam, Kerala has ambitious plans to expand the seaplane service to other scenic locations across the state. Potential destinations under consideration include Kovalam, Ashtamudi, Punnamada, Kumarakom, Vembanad, Malampuzha and Bekal, allowing tourists to explore the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Kerala from a unique perspective. The success of this project hinges on careful logistical planning and coordination with relevant stakeholders, including the Cochin Port Trust, the Indian Navy, and 'De Havilland Canada'. Feasibility and hydrographic surveys have been conducted to ensure smooth operations and safety standards are met.
Source: Kerala Introduces Seaplane Service To Boost Tourism Connectivity. Here's All You Need To Know