Andhra Pradesh launches seaplane service trial aiming tourism to fly high

In a major boost for tourism in Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu along with Union Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Saturday launched a trial run of a seaplane service between Srisailam and Vijayawada, marking the state’s first seaplane operation.
“The swift 45-minute service will enhance tourism, employment, and improve access to destinations like Srisailam’s ancient Shiva temple, Tiger Reserve, and the iconic dam,” Naidu said in an X post after his inaugural flight from Vijayawada’s Prakasam Barrage to Srisailam.
Stating that seaplanes are used for more than just tourism, he said, “They (seaplane services) are also used for emergency services and transportation.”
The Andhra Pradesh government is mulling extending water aerodromes, connecting more remote areas across the state.

The De Havilland Twin Otter Classic 300 seaplane, which arrived from Ahmedabad, took off from a newly established 500-metre runway near Prakasam Barrage, where a 2-kilometre water route has been designated for its movement. The 120-meter-wide runway includes a turn toward the shore, with a jetty prepared for landing.
Viewing areas were set up at Punnami Ghat and Durga Ghat, while security was tightened around the trial launch site.
The seaplane would further continue its journey to Mysuru and Lakshadweep as part of a ceremonial launch across India.
India first introduced seaplane services in Gujarat four years ago, and the Twin Otter Classic 300 will soon visit other cities designated for seaplane routes across the country.