Key Points
- Andhra Pradesh has launched a trial seaplane service between Srisailam and Vijayawada.
- The flight takes 45 minutes, making it easier to visit important sites.
- The seaplane service could also improve emergency services and transportation in the state.
- The service operates from a new 500-meter runway near Prakasam Barrage.
- The De Havilland Twin Otter Classic 300 seaplane is part of a nationwide seaplane project.
Looma News
Andhra Pradesh has launched its first trial seaplane service between Srisailam and Vijayawada, marking a major step to boost tourism in the state. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, along with Union Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, kicked off the service, highlighting its potential to increase tourism and create new job opportunities. The flight takes just 45 minutes and offers quick access to popular sites like the ancient Shiva temple, Tiger Reserve, and the Srisailam Dam.
Naidu pointed out that the seaplane service is not only useful for tourism but also plays an important role in providing emergency services and improving transportation within the state. The government is looking at expanding water aerodromes and connecting more remote areas across Andhra Pradesh to this seaplane network.
The trial service uses the De Havilland Twin Otter Classic 300 seaplane, which was brought in from Ahmedabad. It operates from a newly built 500-meter runway near Prakasam Barrage, which is part of a 2-kilometer water route for the seaplane. A jetty has also been constructed for safe landings. Viewing areas have been set up at Punnami Ghat and Durga Ghat, and security has been increased around the trial site.
This seaplane service is part of a broader plan to introduce seaplane routes across India. After this trial, the aircraft will continue to Mysuru and Lakshadweep. Seaplane services were first introduced in Gujarat four years ago, and now the service is expanding to more cities across the country.
