SEAPLANE SERVICE

Subject: Current Events

Context:  SpiceJet gets 3,000 bookings for seaplane service.

Concept:

India’s first seaplane project:

• India’s first seaplane service in Gujarat is set to begin from 31 October, the anniversary of SardarVallabhbhai Patel.
• It will connect Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad to the Statue of Unity in Kevadia.
• The service will be operated by Spicejet Airlines.

Significance of seaplane projects and the potential:

• Given the large and small waterbodies that dot the country, India provides an ideal opportunity for seaplane operations.
• Unlike a conventional aircraft, a seaplane can land both on a waterbody and on land, thereby opening up more opportunities for business and tourism.
• Such projects provide faster and hassle free travel option for the long, treacherous and hilly regions of the country.

Regulation

• Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) will manage the Project of Seaplane in Inland Waterways and Sagarmala Development Company Limited (SDCL) will manage the Projects of seaplane in Coastal Areas.
• IWAI and SDCL will coordinate with the Ministry of Shipping, flight operators, Ministry of Tourism as well as DGCA.