Kerala to launch seaplane service to boost tourism connectivity

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Tourism Minister PA Mohamed Riyas will flag off a seaplane service meant to boost the tourism sector at Bolgatty Waterdrome in Kochi on November 11.
The aircraft—a de Havilland Canada—will fly from Bolgatty to Mattupetty Dam in Idukki district as part of the inaugural flight.
The seaplane service, launched as part of the regional connectivity scheme Udan of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, is aimed at increasing the connectivity of the airports and the backwaters of Kerala. Riyas said the state places top priority on enhancing connectivity to ensure the growth of the tourism sector.
The seaplane project is aimed at amplifying the connectivity of the four airports as well as the waterdromes. The project presents numerous opportunities for Kerala's tourism sector, given the abundance of water bodies in the region. Apart from Bolgatty and Mattupetty, the setting up of waterdromes is under consideration in Kovalam, Ashtamudi, Punnamada, Kumarakom, Vembanad, Malambuzha, and Bekal.
“The expansion of motorable roads connecting the remotest parts of Kerala ensures that tourists can now reach far-off locations with ease, enjoying scenic routes along the way,” he added.
“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—waterways, highways, helicopters, and now, seaplanes. These initiatives underscore our commitment to making Kerala a tourism-friendly state with unmatched connectivity,” he said.
A Switzerland-based private company and SpiceJet are the operators of the de Havilland Canada aircraft, which is coming to Kerala after the trial services in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
Tourism Secretary K Biju said the seaplane service will facilitate tourists to visit more destinations in a short span of time. He added that it can be popularised through campaigns in foreign countries to increase the footfall of visitors to the state.
According to Tourism Director Sikha Surendran, the seaplane service is expected to contribute to the growth of domestic tourism, and tourists can visit even remote areas where waterways are the major mode of transportation.