Plans for a seaplane project in India's coastal Kerala state are being revived with demonstration flights scheduled in November under the country's UDAN regional connectivity scheme, aimed at enhancing coastal connectivity. Stakeholders including De Havilland Aircraft of Canada, the Indian Navy, and the Cochin Port Trust carried out reconnaissance operations on October 3 to finalise logistics for demonstration flights in the coastal city of Kochi.
The Times of India newspaper reports that three potential sites near Vembanad Lake were evaluated for the seaplane project. After considering factors like water depth, wind patterns, and safety, stakeholders selected a water strip parallel to Marine Drive as the preferred location. However, the site needs several upgrades before the operations, including repairs to floating decks and installation of safety features.
Initial investigations have highlighted logistical challenges, including heavy boat traffic, necessitating regulatory measures from local authorities. Unique refuelling challenges were also identified, as the Indian Oil Corporation must explore alternative methods due to the absence of a fuel bowser. A follow-up meeting was held to clarify operational details and safety protocols, indicating a focus on balancing development with environmental and social concerns.
The renewed initiative follows a failed 2013 project hindered by protests over environmental and livelihood concerns. At the time, Kerala Seaplane and Pinnacle Air had planned to start seaplane operations in Kerala after the local government opened up the sector to investors in the hopes of spurring tourism. Despite the initial enthusiasm, commercial operations were hindered primarily due to opposition from local fishing communities who feared that the seaplane service would threaten their livelihoods and marine ecology.
