Kerala’s ambitious seaplane project is set to take off, with the first seaplane scheduled to land at the Bolgatty backwaters in Kochi at 2:30 pm on Sunday (November 10). Tourism Minister P.A. Muhammad Riyas will officially flag off the trial seaplane service from Bolgatty to Mattupetti reservoir, near Munnar, at 9:30 am on Monday (November 11), according to Transport Secretary (Aviation, Metro, and Railways) Biju Prabhakar.
A special reception will be held at the Bolgatty Palace for the aircraft pilots to mark the occasion.
Prabhakar highlighted the transformative potential of the seaplane project for Kerala’s tourism industry, encouraging stakeholders to fully embrace its opportunities. The seaplane initiative is part of the government’s Regional Connectivity Scheme and was officially launched in Andhra Pradesh on Saturday, Prabhakar said.
“The project aims to create high-value tourism opportunities. Beyond tourism, it has also potential for boosting medical transport, emergency evacuation, and VIP travels sectors. The trial service is intended to demonstrate the project’s feasibility to tourism operators and the public,” he added.
Kochi to welcome nine-passenger seaplane
The amphibious aircraft, capable of taking off and landing on both land and water, can carry up to nine passengers. After arriving from Andhra Pradesh, the seaplane will stop for refueling at Kochi International Airport before reaching Bolgatty Marina.
Ahead of the trial flight, Prabhakar visited the Marina to review security measures and ensure everything was in place for the seaplane’s arrival.
Seaplane service to connect scenic locations
Tourism department officials explained that seaplanes offer the advantage of stunning aerial views through large windows, providing passengers with a unique experience over Kerala’s scenic landscapes, particularly the Western Ghats and Munnar.
A major benefit of seaplanes is their ability to bypass the costs of building and maintaining traditional airstrips. The government plans to develop a seaplane tourism circuit that will connect key water bodies and airports across the state, including destinations like Mattupetty, Malampuzha, Vembanadu, Ashtamudikkayal, Chandragiripuzha, and Kovalam.
