Trials for Kochi-Lakshadweep seaplane likely to be held on Wednesday

Kochi: The trial operations of the seaplane services from Cochin International Airport Ltd (Cial) to Lakshadweep may be held on Wednesday. According to Cial authorities, the airport is facilitating the upcoming seaplane trials connecting Kochi with various islands of Lakshadweep with the aim of improving regional connectivity and promoting island tourism. "The trial operations, proposed to commence from Wednesday (subject to weather conditions), are being undertaken as part of the initiative to assess the operational feasibility of regular seaplane services to the Lakshadweep islands. The 20-seater Twin Otter seaplane aircraft, owned by M/s Skyhope Aviation Ltd, will be operated in sectors including Kochi-Agatti-Kalpeni-Kavaratti and Kochi-Kadmat-Kiltan-Agatti. Around 12 trial operations are scheduled over a span of three days, covering multiple island destinations. Cial will extend all necessary operational support and coordination for the successful conduct of the trials in association with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), UT administration of Lakshadweep, Airports Authority of India and other stakeholders involved in the project," Cial officials said in a statement. The proposed seaplane connectivity is expected to significantly improve accessibility to the islands while also boosting tourism, emergency connectivity and regional economic development in Lakshadweep. The initiative is viewed as a major milestone in strengthening air connectivity between Kerala and the island territories while opening new opportunities for sustainable tourism and faster transportation services.