The construction of water aerodromes and landing facilities for seaplane services at 10 locations in Andhra Pradesh has received approval from the Centre, according to officials familiar with the matter.
Approval Under UDAN Scheme
The Centre has granted in-principle approval to provide financial assistance under the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme for building water aerodromes at Vijayawada, Srisailam, Visakhapatnam, Araku, Lambasingi, Kakinada, Rajahmundry, Tirupati, Suryalanka, and Dindi. Each project is estimated to cost ₹20 crore. The UDAN scheme aims to improve regional air connectivity across the country.
Boosting Tourism and Connectivity
The state government had shortlisted these 10 locations for seaplane services to promote tourism and enhance air connectivity in these regions. “No major works were carried out on the seaplane project in the past year. Now that the Centre has decided to extend financial support under the UDAN scheme, the state government will begin the tendering process and construction of aerodromes to make the seaplane project a reality by 2027,” said Nancharaiah, General Manager of the APTDC Water Fleet.
The official added that approvals and clearances are being sought from multiple departments, including irrigation and environment, after which the government plans to develop the infrastructure in phases. He further stated that the government aims to make seaplane services operational by January next year through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The initiative is expected to significantly reduce travel time between major tourist destinations while offering a unique travel experience.
First Route: Vijayawada to Srisailam
“The administration plans to launch seaplane services first between Prakasam (Vijayawada) and Srisailam, which has been found most viable among all the proposed routes. Aerodrome works will begin soon at Berm Park upstream of the Prakasam barrage,” said NTR District Collector Dr. G. Lakshmisha.
Currently, successful seaplane operations are largely limited to premium tourist destinations such as the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and the Maldives. Andhra Pradesh hopes the new project will position the state as a prominent tourism hub with modern and innovative transport infrastructure.
