Kochi-Lakshadweep seaplane trial flight postponed to May 12

Inclement weather has forced the rescheduling of the trial flight of the seaplane service on the Kochi-Lakshadweep route to May 12.

The seaplane was originally scheduled to operate a trial flight from the Cochin International Airport to Kalpeni in Lakshadweep, a journey expected to take around an hour. According to the plan, the service was also to connect four other islands in the Union Territory. Official sources said the trial flight was postponed following the issuance of a yellow alert for rain in more than half a dozen districts in Kerala, including Ernakulam.

Besides Kalpeni, the seaplane is expected to operate services to Agatti, Kadmat, Kavaratti and Kiltan, primarily catering to tourists and other passengers. The twin-engine seaplane can accommodate up to 20 passengers.

In November 2024, a seaplane estimated to cost ₹60 crore conducted a 20-minute demonstration flight from the marina near the KTDC-run Bolgatty Palace and Island Resort to the Mattupetty Dam in Munnar. The initiative was aimed mainly at ferrying tourists seeking to save travel time and avoid long road journeys along the route.