The seaplane service, part of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India, aims to enhance connectivity between Kerala’s airports and backwaters. This service will be officially flagged off by Tourism and Public Works Minister Mr. P.A. Mohamed Riyas on November 11 at Bolgatty Palace, Kochi.
Mr. Riyas emphasized Kerala’s commitment to strengthening connectivity as a crucial factor for tourism growth. “The launch of heli-tourism is a major step, making our destinations accessible for quick, seamless travel. Expanding motorable roads to even remote areas ensures tourists can reach far-off locations with ease while enjoying scenic routes,” the Minister stated.
He further highlighted Kerala’s focus on developing national, coastal, and hill highways to support connectivity. “Seaplane services will complement these efforts, positioning Kerala as a well-connected destination through a network of transportation options—waterways, highways, helicopters, and now, seaplanes. This reinforces our dedication to making Kerala a tourism-friendly state with unmatched connectivity,” Mr. Riyas added.
Industries, Law, and Coir Minister Mr. P. Rajeeve will preside over the function at Bolgatty Palace at 9:30 a.m. Following the ceremony, the seaplane ‘de Havilland Canada’ will fly to Mattupetty Dam in Idukki district, where the crew and passengers will be welcomed by Water Resources Minister Mr. Roshy Augustine.
Arriving at Kochi International Airport on November 10 at 2:00 p.m., the seaplane will then land at Bolgatty Palace’s waterdrome at 3:30 p.m. and be hosted by the Department of Tourism.
Operated by a Switzerland-based private company in collaboration with SpiceJet, the ‘de Havilland Canada’ seaplane arrives in Kerala following trials in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Ahead of its launch, officials from Cochin Port Trust, the Indian Navy, and the seaplane team conducted a high-level inspection, along with feasibility and hydrographic surveys.
Tourism Secretary Mr. K. Biju noted that the seaplane service would allow tourists to explore more destinations within a short time, adding that international marketing efforts will increase visitor footfall. Tourism Director Ms. Sikha Surendran added that the service will also support domestic tourism by improving access to remote locations where waterways are primary routes.
The project aims to amplify connectivity among Kerala’s four airports and waterdromes, with substantial potential due to Kerala’s numerous water bodies. Besides Bolgatty and Mattupetty, new waterdromes are being considered at Kovalam, Ashtamudi, Punnamada, Kumarakom, Vembanad, Malampuzha, and Bekal. Seaplanes are powered fixed-wing aircraft capable of taking off and landing on water, with options seating 9, 15, 20, or 30 passengers. Passengers can board these planes from waterdromes above the water surface, providing a unique travel experience
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