Exploring the Kochi Seaplane Journey: From Bolgatty to Mattupetty
Kochi’s vibrant marine landscape recently witnessed a new kind of adventure—a seaplane trial run from Bolgatty to Mattupetty. As I stood along the scenic Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Marg at Kochi Marine Drive, camera in hand, I had the rare opportunity to capture some incredible moments of this unique flight as it lifted off from the picturesque backwaters and glided seamlessly onto the reservoir waters at Mattupetty Dam.
In this blog post, I’m excited to share a video of this extraordinary event, along with select low-resolution previews of high-resolution photographs I captured with my professional camera. These images are available for purchase, ideal for online buyers and enthusiasts looking for premium visuals of Kerala's aviation and natural beauty.
The Seaplane and Its Features
The seaplane used in this trial run is a DHC-6 Twin Otter, a reliable and versatile model developed by the Canadian aviation company, de Havilland. This aircraft, part of a regional partnership with SpiceJet, can seat 14 to 20 passengers, depending on its configuration. One of the most remarkable features of the Twin Otter seaplane is its ability to take off and land in limited water space, making it perfect for the lush and water-abundant landscape of Kerala.
After its test runs in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, the plane arrived in Kerala to undergo further trials. This particular service aligns with the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) UDAN initiative by the Indian government, which seeks to improve regional air accessibility across the country. The goal of these trials is to assess the feasibility of regular seaplane services in connecting popular destinations in Kerala, enhancing travel options for locals and tourists alike.
Capturing the Moment: The Takeoff and Landing
At precisely 11:30 am, the seaplane gracefully lifted off from the Bolgatty Palace Waterdrome, casting reflections over the shimmering backwaters of Kochi. I managed to capture its landing on Kochi backwaters to its majestic lift-off over the Kochi waters. These photographs showcase the serene beauty of the takeoff and landing, accentuated by the emerald waters and lush greenery surrounding the flight path.
In the embedded video, you’ll find highlights from the journey, showcasing the thrill and novelty of water-based aviation. This footage provides a rare glimpse into the possibilities that seaplane travel brings to Kerala, offering travelers both a scenic experience and convenient access to popular but remote locations.
Buy High-Resolution Photos
If you’re interested in high-quality visuals of this seaplane journey, I’m offering select photographs for sale. These images capture the essence of the seaplane in action—from its majestic lift-off over the Kochi waters to its peaceful landing in Mattupetty. Perfect for travel bloggers, tourism promoters, and aviation enthusiasts, these images bring a unique perspective on Kerala’s natural beauty and emerging aviation sector.
You’ll find low-resolution previews below, but feel free to reach out for access to the high-resolution versions. These exclusive photos are ideal for anyone looking to enhance their content with stunning, professionally captured images.
Seaplane Meets Kochi Water Metro: A Unique Moment Captured |
The Future of Seaplane Travel in Kerala
This trial run is just the beginning of what could be an exciting new travel option in Kerala. With its scenic lakes and backwaters, Kerala is perfectly suited to accommodate seaplanes, creating a unique opportunity for quick, scenic travel between popular destinations. Should these trials prove successful, we might soon see regular seaplane routes that will not only provide fast travel options but also draw more tourists to Kerala’s rich landscapes and waterscapes.