Maharashtra Maritime Board Plans Seaplane Service Between Mumbai and Ratnagiri Beaches
The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) has initiated efforts to launch a seaplane service between Mumbai and Ratnagiri, focusing on Bhagwati and Bhatye beaches as potential landing sites. The project aims to boost tourism and strengthen regional connectivity across the Konkan region.
The proposal follows a recent announcement by Maharashtra Ports and Fisheries Minister Uday Samant, who stated that a seaplane service would be introduced to improve tourism in Ratnagiri. Discussions regarding the project have already been held with the Industries Department. The proposal will now be placed before the MMB for formal approval.
Because the Maritime Board functions through an independent governing body, the project must secure all necessary statutory and legal clearances before any implementation can begin. Once these initial approvals are obtained, detailed technical studies will be launched to evaluate the feasibility of seaplane operations on the proposed route.
During the technical assessment phase, experts will analyze several environmental and safety factors at Bhagwati and Bhatye beaches. These studies will examine sea currents, wind speeds, tidal patterns, and the availability of safe landing and take-off zones. The findings will be compiled into a comprehensive technical report to determine whether the selected locations can safely support commercial seaplane flights.
In addition to the technical evaluations, the Maritime Board will appoint a financial consultant to study the commercial viability of the seaplane service. This consultant will review estimated operating costs and recommend ticket prices that are affordable for passengers while ensuring the service remains financially sustainable for the operator.
The final flight schedules, ticket fares, and exact operational routes will only be decided after both the technical and financial feasibility studies are fully completed. If successfully implemented, the seaplane service is expected to majorly reduce travel times between Mumbai and Ratnagiri.
