Kochi–Lakshadweep seaplane service: Duration, facilities, safety features

Trial operations for the Kochi–Lakshadweep seaplane service began on Sunday, marking a key step forward in enhancing air connectivity and boosting tourism across the islands. The test flights are being conducted by linking the islands of Agatti, Kadmat, Kavaratti, Kalpeni, and Kiltan.

A SpiceJet aircraft has been brought to Cochin International Airport for the trial runs. The journey between Kochi and the islands will take approximately one hour. The service will be operated using a 20-seater Canadian Viking DHC-6-400 Twin Otter twin-engine aircraft. Once the trial flights are successfully completed, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will announce the date for the commencement of passenger operations.

The schedule for the trial flights has been finalised by the Lakshadweep Ports, Shipping and Aviation Department. Accordingly, the aircraft departed Cochin International Airport at 10 am on Sunday to reach Agatti by 11 am. It will depart Agatti at 3.30 pm and return to Kochi by 4.30 pm.

On Monday, the flight is scheduled to reach Kalpeni at 10.30 am., proceed to Kavaratti and return to Kochi from Kavaratti by 3.30 pm. On the 12th, the aircraft will arrive at Kadmat Island at 11.30 am, continue to Kiltan, and return to Kochi by 3.30 pm.

The trial operations are being conducted by SkyHop, with officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) also on board for inspection. Stringent safety measures have been put in place across the islands in connection with the trial operations. Fire and rescue services, along with safety boats operated by trained personnel, have been deployed. Port authorities have also been instructed to ensure that boats equipped with firefighting equipment are stationed at the respective islands during landing and take-off operations.