On November 11, 2024, Kerala marked a new milestone in tourism and regional connectivity as its first seaplane service completed a successful trial run, soaring from Bolgatty Palace in Kochi to Mattupetty Dam in Idukki. Flagged off by Kerala Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas, the launch signifies a big leap forward in making Kerala’s scenic regions accessible by air, shortening travel times, and enhancing the state’s appeal to travelers worldwide.  

This service is operated by a Swiss-based private company in collaboration with SpiceJet and is part of Kerala’s larger vision to improve connectivity across the state. Supported by the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN, this seaplane service is the first of many steps in a plan to link Kerala’s airports, highways, and remote tourist destinations.  

A New Era in Regional Travel

The excitement was palpable as Minister Riyas and other prominent officials, including Industries Minister P. Rajeeve and Education Minister V. Sivankutty, boarded the 17-seater seaplane for its maiden journey. As the plane lifted off from the Bolgatty Palace Waterdrome and made its way to Idukki’s Mattupetty Dam, it offered a preview of the journey travelers will soon experience—a unique blend of aerial and waterborne travel that showcases Kerala’s breathtaking landscapes in a whole new way.  

“This service brings the promise of reaching Kerala’s remote areas quickly and economically,” stated Minister Riyas. "By integrating seaplane services with our airports and transport corridors, we can make Kerala’s most scenic spots more accessible than ever.”  

In addition to connecting Kochi and Idukki, the plan includes linking Kerala’s four international airports, national highways, hill highways, and the high-speed rail corridors currently under development. The state government envisions that seaplane travel will become an affordable and accessible option for locals and tourists alike, with subsidies helping to reduce fares.  

A Collaborative Effort: Spice Jet and Swiss Expertise

The seaplane service operates using de Havilland aircraft—a trusted name in aviation—with SpiceJet and a Switzerland-based private company providing operational and technical support. The Canadian aircraft manufacturer has supplied not only the planes but also its engineering expertise to navigate the technical and logistical challenges involved in operating water-based flights.  

These small planes, ranging in size from 9 to 30 seats, have previously undergone trial services in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, further affirming the feasibility of such a service in Kerala’s diverse terrain. 

Affordable Scenic Travel Under the UDAN Scheme

The seaplane service falls under the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN, a central government initiative to enhance regional air connectivity by making air travel more affordable. In alignment with this vision, Kerala aims to provide subsidized fares for seaplane services, making it easier for people from all walks of life to enjoy the convenience and novelty of seaplane travel.  

While traditionally, such unique travel options are seen as exclusive or high-end, Kerala is working to change that perception by focusing on affordability and access. 

This trial run marks just the beginning of Kerala’s seaplane journey. As the state develops its seaplane infrastructure, it envisions routes that connect more remote and picturesque areas, creating an immersive travel experience across Kerala’s iconic hill stations, pristine backwaters, and unspoiled coastlines. The tourism sector stands to gain significantly, with easier access attracting not only domestic tourists but also international visitors who seek sustainable and scenic travel options.