Centre Approves 48 Seaplane Routes To Strengthen Kerala’s Tourism Network

The Union Ministry of Civil Aviation has approved the development of 48 seaplane routes in Kerala, aimed at improving connectivity within the state’s key tourist regions. Tourism Minister PA Mohamed Riyas announced the decision on Friday and said that a plan to develop the necessary infrastructure for the project is being prepared. The approved routes have been allocated to SpiceJet, IndiaOne Air, Maritime Energy Heli Air Services Pvt Ltd (MEHAIR), and Pawan Hans Limited (PHL).

The Routes

Introduced under the Centre’s UDAN regional connectivity scheme, the initiative is intended to link Kerala’s major international airports with destinations such as Kovalam, Kumarakom, and Vembanad. The new routes are expected to provide faster and more convenient access to the state’s backwaters, lakes, and other tourist locations.

Although the final routes are yet to be announced, the proposed seaplane network is expected to include services between the Kerala mainland and Lakshadweep, as well as links connecting international airports to inland destinations suitable for seaplane operations. Potential locations identified for developing waterdromes include Kovalam, Ashtamudi, Vembanad, Kumarakom, Punnamada, Bolgatty, Malampuzha, and Kasaragod.

Officials said the seaplane services would add to Kerala’s transport network and make travel between its coastal and inland areas more accessible for visitors. The services are intended to improve access across the state and encourage wider travel among both domestic and international visitors.

Improved Connectivity

The initiative is designed to extend connectivity beyond established tourist centres, reaching areas that have so far remained less accessible by conventional means of transport. Kerala's seaplane service, launched in November 2024, connects key points, though the initial launch had faced delays. The project is supported by the government's Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN, which makes the service more affordable through subsidies. The project includes the development of infrastructure like waterdromes at various water bodies across Kerala's districts. The service uses 20-seater seaplanes manufactured by De Havilland Canada.

The next stage of the project will focus on establishing these waterdromes — designated water-based terminals where seaplanes can land, take off, and facilitate passenger movement. The services are likely to use small aircraft with a seating capacity of between 10 and 25 passengers.

FAQs

What is the seaplane project in Kerala?
The project involves the introduction of seaplane services across 48 approved routes in Kerala to improve regional air connectivity and enhance access to the state’s major and emerging tourist destinations.

Who will operate the seaplane services?
The routes have been allocated to four operators — SpiceJet, IndiaOne Air, Maritime Energy Heli Air Services Pvt Ltd (MEHAIR), and Pawan Hans Limited (PHL).

Which areas are likely to be included in the routes?
While the detailed route map has not been confirmed, potential destinations include Kovalam, Ashtamudi, Vembanad, Kumarakom, Punnamada, Bolgatty, Malampuzha, and Kasaragod, along with possible links to Lakshadweep.

When will the services begin?
The timeline has not yet been officially announced. The next phase will involve the construction and approval of waterdromes before flight operations can commence.