Kochi to Munnar in 25 Minutes on Seaplane: Ticket Prices, Booking Details and Environmental Concerns
Kochi to Munnar in 25 Minutes on Seaplane: Ticket Prices, Booking Details and Environmental Concerns
Transforming travel between Kochi and Munnar, the under-trial seaplane service promises a swift 25-minute journey, but concerns over environmental impact persist.
Currently, a road trip from Cochin International Airport to Munnar takes approximately three hours. The introduction of a seaplane service under the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagarik) scheme could revolutionize this experience. Once operational, the seaplane journey will not only reduce travel time to under 25 minutes but also address challenges such as night travel restrictions on the forested Neriaymangalam-Adimali route.
The 17-seater seaplane, owned by Canada-based de Havilland and operated with support from SpiceJet, recently completed its test flight successfully. Authorities believe the service will enhance tourism in Munnar, attracting more international visitors and supporting emergency medical evacuations from the hill station to Kochi. Residents of nearby hamlets like Kanthalloor and Marayoor are also expected to benefit from the service.
Ticket Pricing and Booking Platforms
Although ticket charges are yet to be finalized, one-way fares are expected to range between ₹1,500 and ₹5,000, based on rates for similar services. Tickets will likely be available on platforms like SpiceShuttle.com, along with other booking sites. The service will operate during daylight hours, with a baggage allowance of 25 kg (20 kg check-in and 5 kg cabin baggage).
Despite the potential benefits, environmentalists and forest officials have raised alarms. The sound of the seaplane’s propeller might disturb wild elephants near the Mattupetty reservoir, a regular gathering spot for about ten elephants. Concerns over wildlife disruption had earlier led to abandoning plans to land the seaplane at the Idukki dam. The forest department is urging authorities to reconsider the use of Mattupetty reservoir for the service.
Part of the central government’s UDAN initiative to boost regional air connectivity, this seaplane service aims to enhance accessibility to remote tourist destinations. However, balancing tourism development with environmental sustainability remains a challenge. Authorities must address these concerns as they move forward with the trial phase.
The proposed service could transform Munnar’s tourism prospects, but its success hinges on striking harmony between convenience and conservation.
(Source – Timesnow)
