Seaplane aerodromes at four locations in Gujarat

AHMEDABAD: Regional connectivity as well as tourism is set to get a major boost in Gujarat, as seaplane operations are likely to begin at four locations in the state. These are Sardar Sarovar Dam, Narmada (Kevadia); Sabarmati Riverfront, Ahmedabad; Dharoi Dam, Mehsana (Dharoi) and Shatrunjay Dam, Bhavnagar (Palitana). According to data by Union ministry of civil and aviation, these four water aerodromes are among 14 in India that have been included in the third round of bidding under Regional Connectivity Scheme – UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik).
If all works fine, these destinations will be provided air connectivity through seaplane under the scheme, giving a major boost to tourism.Top officials of Airports Authority of India (AAI) confirmed that the bidding process for these water aerodromes is under way and the bidder will be finalised by the end of January. Sources confirmed that three players have submitted their bids for Sabarmati Riverfront and Sardar Sarovar Dam, among others.

A memorandum of understanding will be inked between Government of Gujarat and AAI and the MCA to set up infrastructure to facilitate seaplane operations, a source revealed.
“Initial studies have estimated a cost of around Rs 15 crore for developing basic infrastructure including a jetty, arrival and departure area, office space and a security checkpoints. Smaller 7- to 9-seater twin-engine aircraft would be then deployed by airlines concerned for seaplane operations,” said Guruprasad Mohapatra, chairman, AAI.
Sources confirmed that the AAI will be providing funds for infrastructure. “A pre-feasibility study has already been completed at these locations to identify viability of seaplane operations, some four months ago,” said Captain Ajay Chauhan, director, civil aviation, Government of Gujarat.
Once bidders are finalised, experts said it will take around six months for seaplane services to begin operating along these routes.
“It takes time to create infrastructure. Several aspects such as approach routes, funnel (landing route) area, need to be considered to facilitate safe flying along these routes,” Chauhan added.
A well-placed source confirmed that take-off and landing permissions for the seaplanes will be given through Air Traffic Control (ATC) offices of the nearest airports. “The nearest airport to the proposed water aerodrome will be defined as a nodal airport and the ATC will facilitate take-off and landing of the seaplanes. Accordingly, sea plane movement from Dharoi and Sabarmati Riverfront would be monitored through Ahmedabad airport while the one at Statue of Unity would be monitored from Vadodara Airport and the one at Shatrunjay would be monitored from Bhavnagar,” the source explained.