Are Kerala's seaplane ambitions set for takeoff?

FOR a state blessed with an extensive shoreline and a plethora of waterbodies such as lakes, rivers and backwaters, operating seaplane services would be beneficial in boosting Kerala's tourism prospects and aiding in its mission to become an aviation hub in the country.

- ANU KURUVILLA

Though various proposals were mooted over the years, nothing concrete materialised until very recently. In 2024, a seaplane conducted a trial flight from the Kochi backwaters to Mattupetty dam near Munnar under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka aam Naagrik) scheme.

Now, in yet another significant development, it has come to light that the state will be getting its first-ever seaplane service from Kochi to Lakshadweep. Ahead of the Kerala Aviation Summit this weekend, TNIE takes a look at the seaplane tourism possibilities in spots such as Kochi and Kovalam.

A top official with the Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) says, "The project will be managed by the Union government. We hear that it is likely to be implemented before the end of the year."