* Rushikonda to Jolaput route under consideration

*  Representatives from SpiceJet have recently carried out ground surveys in Visakhapatnam, Alluri Sitarama Raju, Kakinada, and East Godavari districts

The primary routes under consideration include

■ Visakhapatnam – Kakinada – Vijayawada – Srisailam

■ Visakhapatnam – Kakinada – Visakhapatnam

■ Kakinada – Vijayawada – Kakinada

■ Visakhapatnam – Vijayawada – Visakhapatnam

■ Visakhapatnam – Srisailam – Visakhapatnam

kiranmai tutika| AMARAVATI

Aviation companies are currently conducting feasibility studies at various water bodies across the state to determine suitable locations for take-off and landing. According to reliable sources, SpiceJet have recently carried out ground surveys in Visakhapatnam, Alluri Sitarama Raju, Kakinada, and East Godavari districts. These studies focused on assessing water resources, economic viability, and potential challenges associated with seaplane operations.

The Andhra Pradesh Aviation Development Corporation (APADC) is now looking to expand operations and establish multiple routes. The APADC has initiated preliminary studies in Bhogapuram (Vizianagaram district) and Araku, Paderu (Alluri Sitarama Raju district). A specialized team, including a seaplane captain and commercial operations experts, conducted field visits across Visakhapatnam and East Godavari to assess water bodies suitable for seaplane landing.

Initial surveys identified Rushikonda Beach and Bheemili in Visakhapatnam as potential seaplane hubs. However, Rushikonda's technical constraints—mainly its Blue Flag Beach status and certain geographical limitations—pose challenges for operations. Bheemili, on the other hand, was deemed highly favorable for seaplane services.

Jolaput Reservoir in Alluri Sitarama Raju district was also surveyed and found to be technically suitable for seaplane landings. However, accessibility remains a concern, as reaching Jolaput from Visakhapatnam via Araku involves high travel costs and logistical difficulties. Additional surveys were conducted in East Godavari at Korangi, Dindi, Pasarlapudi, Kotipalli, and Antarvedi. While Korangi and select locations showed potential, others require further assessment.

Further evaluations will be conducted in Vizianagaram and Srikakulam districts before a final decision is made regarding the operational locations. Officials believe that the Visakhapatnam-Kakinada-Vijayawada-Srisailam route has the highest potential for commercial success. The inclusion of key pilgrimage sites and tourist hotspots along this route is expected to attract significant interest from travelers.

Once final reports are submitted, authorities will move forward with regulatory approvals and infrastructure development, setting the stage for Andhra Pradesh’s next big tourism venture.