Kerala Tourism and Public Works Minister PA Mohamed Riyas will announce a seaplane service aimed at boosting the state’s tourism sector here on Monday. The Swiss-based private company and SpiceJet are the operators of the seaplane service De Havilland Canada, based in Kerala after trial services in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
The seaplane will land at the Cochin International Airport, Kochi on Monday at 2 pm and then, fly down to the Bolgatty Palace water airport here. After the inauguration, the flight crew and passengers will be given a reception at Mattupetty Dam in Idukki district.
The seaplane service, which comes under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN of the Ministry of Civil Aviation of the Centre, is aimed at increasing the connectivity of the airports and backwaters of Kerala.
Riyas said that Kerala is giving priority to improving connectivity, as it plays an important role in the growth of the tourism sector.
“The introduction of heli-tourism is an important step in this, making our destinations easily accessible for quick, hassle-free travel. Additionally, the expansion of motorable roads connecting even the most remote areas of Kerala ensures that tourists can now reach remote areas easily, enjoying the beautiful roads along the way, ” said Riyas, who is the son-in-law of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
“Our efforts also extend to the development of national highways, as well as coastal and hill highways, which will improve 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 and seaplanes now, these initiatives underscore our commitment to making Kerala a tourism-friendly state with unparalleled connectivity.
Before the launch, a high-level inspection was conducted under the supervision of officials of the Cochin Port Trust, the Indian Navy and the naval aviation. A feasibility study and hydrographic survey were also completed prior to launch.
The seaplane project aims to increase the connectivity of the four airports and seaplane terminals. This project offers a lot of prospects for the tourism sector of Kerala due to the presence of abundant water resources. Besides Bolgatty and Mattupetty, setting up of water dams is being considered in Kovalam, Ashtamudi, Punnamada, Kumarakom, Vembanad, Malambuzha, and Bekal.