Mumbai:
The seaplane has finally arrived in India, though a decade late for sure.
The country's first amphibious aircraft that can land and take-off from land and water has been launched in Mumbai. The eight-seater fixed-wing aircraft which will be operational by the end of the year is being aimed for intra-inland transport and tourism in the Andaman and Nicobar islands. The service will connect Port Blair with Havelock and subsequently other islands in North Andaman.
There are plans to introduce the aircraft in coastal destinations like Lakshadweep and Goa.
The aircraft has been bought by Pawan Hans, the operator on a wet lease for six months in a 50:50 JV with the Andaman and Nicobar administration. While the cost per seat is not out yet, the operator claims that it will be competitive and boost India's water-front tourism.
K Tyagi, CMD of Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd said, "It will not be expensive. It will be very, very affordable. It's a tested technology and used extensively in Australia, Canada and Maldives. Ofcourse, in India it's taken more time to come."