Efforts to introduce seaplane connectivity across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have moved closer to operationalisation, with groundwork and logistical preparations for the service reaching an advanced stage, according to officials familiar with the project.
The progress was reviewed during a meeting at Lok Niwas where the Managing Director of M/s MEHAIR Seaplanes Pvt. Ltd. called on the Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Vice-Chairman of the Islands Development Agency. The company briefed the administration on the status of preparations for launching seaplane services across multiple island sectors.
Officials said the company has already been awarded routes covering five sectors in the archipelago, including Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, Long Island, Mayabunder and Hutbay. These routes are expected to improve air connectivity between Sri Vijaya Puram and several tourist and remote destinations in the islands, which currently rely largely on sea transport.
According to the company’s update during the meeting, the chartering of seaplanes and the engagement of pilots are currently in advanced stages. Preparatory work for the water-based infrastructure and associated ground facilities has also progressed substantially, bringing the project closer to launch.
Authorities indicated that operations in three sectors, linking Sri Vijaya Puram with Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, and Long Island, are expected to commence in the near future once the remaining groundwork is completed. These sectors are considered among the key routes for both tourism and local connectivity in the region.
Seaplane services are seen as a significant step in strengthening inter-island connectivity in the geographically dispersed Andaman and Nicobar archipelago. With several inhabited islands separated by large stretches of sea, transportation between them often depends on ship services that can take several hours.
Officials said the proposed seaplane operations could reduce travel time considerably while offering an additional mode of transport for tourists as well as residents. The introduction of seaplanes is also expected to complement existing ferry and helicopter services operating between islands.
During the meeting, the Lieutenant Governor urged the company to expedite the remaining work required for the early operationalisation of the seaplane services. Authorities emphasised the importance of completing pending tasks in order to begin operations at the earliest possible time.
Improving transportation connectivity has remained a key focus area for the administration as the islands continue to witness steady growth in tourism and economic activity. Enhanced connectivity is also viewed as essential for improving access to remote islands and facilitating movement of people and services.
Apart from reviewing the progress of the seaplane project, the meeting also discussed additional options to further strengthen sea-based transportation in the region. Among the ideas examined was the possible introduction of advanced technology air-cushioned vehicles for marine transportation.
Air-cushioned vehicles, commonly referred to as hovercraft-type transport systems, are capable of travelling over both water and shallow coastal areas. Such technologies are often explored for regions with complex coastal geography, where conventional vessels may face operational limitations.
Officials indicated that exploring new transport technologies could help expand mobility options across the island chain, particularly in areas where traditional maritime infrastructure may be limited. The discussions formed part of broader efforts to enhance connectivity through innovative and efficient transport solutions.
The administration has in recent years prioritised the improvement of transportation networks across the islands as part of wider development planning. Seaplane services are expected to play a complementary role alongside shipping services, aviation connectivity and other marine transport initiatives.
With chartering arrangements and operational planning progressing, authorities expect the seaplane project to move towards its launch phase once the remaining technical and infrastructure-related tasks are completed. The upcoming services are anticipated to add a new dimension to inter-island travel while supporting the tourism sector and improving accessibility across key destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
