Date:25/06/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/06/25/stories/2006062512600100.htm

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Seaplanes to link tourist destinations

S. Anil Radhakrishnan

Kerala Tourism seeks an assistance of Rs.10 crores from the Union Government

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THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Close on the heels of launching helicopter services to tourist destinations, Kerala Tourism has chalked out plans to introduce seaplanes to link major destinations as part of its efforts to improve connectivity between Kovalam, Kumarakom, Munnar and Bekal.

The project envisages creating the necessary infrastructure facilities at these four prime tourist destinations and introducing 10 to12-seater seaplanes with private sector participation. "A proposal to this effect has already been submitted to the Union Government for financial assistance," Director of Kerala Tourism B. Suman told The Hindu .

Kerala Tourism has sought a financial assistance of Rs.10 crores from the Union Government for providing the requisite infrastructure to commence operation of seaplanes.

The seaplanes are like amphibians, as they can take off and land from both land and water. With the introduction of seaplanes, tour operators would be able to transport tourists, especially high-end, from one destination to another easily.

The helicopter services, launched by Air Deccan by setting up a base at Thiruvanantapuram recently to link tourist destinations, is a test dose and to judge the market for seaplanes.

Cheaper option

Seaplanes are extensively used in Sri Lanka and the Maldives to transport tourists. Compared to the cost of operating helicopter services, the operation of seaplanes would be cheaper by 50 per cent. Also, the number of passengers on a seaplane is higher than that on a helicopter.

The tourism authorities have already begun talks with the operators. Already, two to three players, including Air Deccan and SriLankan Airlines, have evinced interest in the project. The authorities hope that the launching of services would go a long way in solving the issue of connectivity. The Tourism Director said the aim of the department was to set up airstrips in all districts.