Seaplane plans in troubled waters

Seaplane plans in troubled waters

News

1. The government has proposed seaplane operations to ease transport and boost business and tourism.

Important facts

2. Unlike a conventional aircraft, a seaplane can land both on a waterbody and on land. Seaplane helps to increase connectivity without building highways and runways.
3. Presence large number of natural water bodies in India provides ideal opportunity for seaplane operations.
4. The first attempt for seaplane operations was taken by Manmohan Singh government in 2010.
5. The Airport Authority of India is working on seven locations in the three States of Gujarat, Assam and Odisha to locate positions for seaplane operations.

Problems faced by seaplane operations

6. Lack of clarity on the rules that will govern seaplane operations.
7. Director General of Civil Aviation has made some rules for setting up water aerodromes but still specific rules for seaplane operations are missing.
8. High duties levied on the import of aircraft could hamper the implementation especially in the nascent stage.
9. Kerala government withdrew its permission for seaplane operations due to fishermen apprehensions that it affects their livelihood.
10. There are apprehensions regarding the adverse environmental impacts that may arise due to seaplane operations.