The much-anticipated seaplane services at Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) are set to commence soon, with the private operator bringing the aircraft to the airport. The service from Kochi to Lakshadweep is expected to launch within a couple of weeks, pending approval from the Union government, according to CIAL officials.
Seaplane Arrives at CIAL
CIAL Director G Manu confirmed that the aircraft arrived a few days ago. As per earlier plans, the fare from Kochi to Lakshadweep will be around Rs 12,000. However, if the Union government includes the seaplane project under the UDAN scheme, operators may offer a limited number of tickets at prices ranging from Rs 2,000 to Rs 4,000. The final decision on fares will be announced later.
State Routes and Approval
CIAL authorities have suggested four destinations in Kerala for seaplane operations to the state government. The Union government has already approved SpiceJet to operate seaplanes on the Kochi-Lakshadweep sector. According to CIAL, intra-state services will begin only after the Kochi-Lakshadweep operations are fully commissioned.
Trial Run Conducted
A trial of seaplane services was conducted on November 11, 2024, between the backwaters off Bolgatty, Kochi, and Mattupetty Dam in Idukki. This successful trial has paved the way for the upcoming commercial operations.
