Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is set to launch a seaplane demonstration flight operation on Saturday (November 9), with the flight traveling from Prakasam Barrage in Vijayawada to Srisailam in Nandyal district.
This initiative, aimed at positioning the state as a leader in India’s water-based aviation sector, will showcase the potential of seaplane operations in enhancing air connectivity across coastal and waterfront regions.
The Chief Minister, accompanied by Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu and other dignitaries, will board the inaugural flight to Srisailam. The state government believes that seaplane operations have significant promise for Andhra Pradesh, which boasts both a beautiful coastline and India’s second-longest stretch of coastal land.
Seaplanes to be available at eight locations in future
Eight locations have already been identified across the state for future seaplane services to support tourism development: Vijayawada (Prakasam Barrage), Araku, Lambasingi, Rushikonda, Kakinada, Konaseema, Srisailam, and Tirupati. The demonstration flight will serve as a catalyst for the creation of water aerodromes—designated areas where seaplane operations can take place.
“Water aerodromes can be developed with fewer resources and in a shorter timeframe than traditional airports. They are essential for enhancing air connectivity in areas lacking runway-based airports,” the statement added.
Introduction of seaplane operations to enhance connectivity
According to the statement, water aerodromes offer a major advantage as they can be developed more quickly and with fewer resources than traditional airports. This makes them ideal for improving air connectivity in remote areas that lack runway-based infrastructure. Through these services, the Andhra Pradesh government aims to boost tourism, generate jobs, and improve accessibility to popular destinations like Vijayawada and Srisailam.
The Andhra Pradesh Airports Development Corporation Ltd (APADCL) is optimistic that the introduction of seaplane operations will significantly enhance the state’s aviation sector, further bolstering its tourism and regional connectivity.