Lakshadweep, tiny island groups in the western part of India are located 200 to 300 km away from the main land. Access to these islands are available through sea and air.The island group consists of Minicoy,Kalpeni,Androth,Agatti,Kavaratti,Amini,Kadmat,Kiltan,Chetlat,Bitra,Bangaram and Pitti islands. It is interesting to note that some of the Indian Naval Ships are having the names of these islands. The Administrative Head Quarters of Indian Union Territory of Lakshadweep is located at Kavaratti.These islands are the only coral reef islands in India, with rich flora and fauna. Watersports, Sight seeing and Fishing are the added attractions to tourists coming to these islands.
Access by air is limited to these islands as Agatti is the only airport in Lakshadweep. Helicopter transfer is available from Agatti to Bangaram Island Resort during monsoon and to Kavaratti through out the year. The flight from Cochin(mainland) to Agatti takes approximately one hour thirty minutes. Flights operate six days a week.
To widen the accessibility to these islands Indian Ministry of Civil Aviations is planning to start Sea Plane Air Taxi service to these islands. Definitey Sea Plane Air Taxi service will further promote
- tourism
- faster connectivity
- easy access to all islands
A feasibility study to operate Sea Plane Air Taxi service was also conducted and the islands of Bangaram, Kadamat, Kalpeni, Kavaratti and Minicoy were found suitable for operation.
Here is the map showing Lakshadweep islands
News Source:indianexpress
Update: April 05
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has come out with guidelines for seaplane pilots. Read more from indianexpress.
Update: June 19
Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd (PHHL) is expected to be the first to start seaplane operations with two aircrafts at Lakshadweep. Read more from indianexpress.
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