Click it and Unblock the Notifications
On Sunday, an exciting event took place near Kochi's International Marina when a seaplane gracefully touched down in the backwaters. Hundreds of eager onlookers gathered at Marine Drive and the Goshree Bridge to witness this unique landing. The landing marked Kerala's first seaplane trial run, a major step towards enhancing regional connectivity and tourism across the state.
The seaplane, a De Havilland Canada model, landed at Bolgatty Waterdrome on Kochi Lake. This new service is part of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The project aims to connect Kerala's four major airports with the state's beautiful backwaters, allowing quicker and easier access for travelers.
The seaplane service uses small aircraft that can carry between 9 and 30 passengers, offering them affordable, subsidized fares. This new transportation mode will help cut down travel time between Kerala's airports and popular tourist areas, promoting tourism growth and opening new opportunities in the travel industry. Plans include creating special waterdromes near other well-known destinations like Kovalam, Ashtamudi, Punnamada, and Kumarakom.
The seaplane landing transformed the atmosphere at the marina, usually a resting point for yachts and boats, into a lively hub for the event. Operated by a Switzerland-based company in collaboration with SpiceJet, the seaplane arrived after earlier trial flights in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. The 20-minute trial flight from Kochi to Munnar's Maattupetty Dam took place on Monday morning, inaugurated by Public Works and Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas. Before this, the seaplane had received a ceremonial water salute upon arrival at Kochi airport from Vijayawada. Tourism Secretary K. Biju, Aviation Secretary Biju Prabhakar, and District Collector N.S.K. Umesh were among those present, along with Canadian pilots Daniel Montgomery and Rodger Brindger.
The seaplane service is expected to give Kerala tourism a major boost by offering a new and scenic way for travelers to experience the state's landscapes and serene waters. According to Tourism Secretary K. Biju, the project not only creates faster travel options but also offers potential for business growth and job creation in the tourism sector.
This innovative service underlines a big step forward for tourism and regional connectivity in Kerala, allowing travelers to enjoy quicker access to the state's popular destinations while enjoying views from above. With affordable fares and a unique travel experience, the seaplane service is set to attract more visitors and contribute to Kerala's economy, opening up new possibilities in tourism and employment.
