Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, May 15: Maharashtra is all set to revive its ambitious seaplane tourism project, a decade after its maiden flight, in a fresh bid to enhance regional connectivity and showcase the state’s natural and cultural gems.
The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) has initiated plans to reintroduce seaplane services connecting metropolitan hubs like Mumbai and Pune to picturesque but less accessible spots including Ganpatipule in Ratnagiri, Koyna Dam in Satara, Ujani Dam in Solapur, and Mandwa in Alibaug, The Indian Express reported.
The initiative is designed to drastically reduce travel time to these tourist hotspots while offering travellers a unique aerial experience. It also aims to boost tourism revenue by making the state's scenic landscapes and cultural heritage more reachable.
The concept is not entirely new. In February 2014, Maharashtra had launched a similar service using a nine-seater seaplane between Mumbai and Pavana Dam near Lonavala. However, the project was grounded shortly thereafter due to a series of challenges, including regulatory bottlenecks and legal troubles involving the Sahara Group, which was then a private partner.
A separate attempt to operate seaplane routes from Juhu to Girgaum Chowpatty in Mumbai also failed to take off due to the lack of approvals for a jetty at Chowpatty.
This time, however, officials assure a more practical and phased approach. “We are opting for routes that offer better chances of success by utilising existing helipads and certified waterbodies,” an MTDC official told The Indian Express. “There is also close coordination with aviation authorities to streamline approvals.”
The MTDC plans to use modern seaplanes with capacities ranging from 9 to 19 passengers, capable of operating on both land and water. A tender has already been floated inviting bids from experienced aviation companies to run the services.
By blending innovation with infrastructure readiness, Maharashtra hopes to carve out a new chapter in its tourism story — one that takes off smoothly and lands in the hearts of both domestic and international travellers.