THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a major move to boost high-end tourism and enhance connectivity across destinations, the state government has invited Expression of Interest to operate heli-tourism services in the state.
The plan is to enlist certified helicopter service operators and aggregators to provide regular, safe and convenient aerial transport linking key tourist destinations such as Kochi, Thekkady, Munnar, Kumarakom, Vagamon and Bekal.
Kerala Tourism came up with this initiative as part of its broader strategy to position the state as a premium tourist destination offering diverse travel experiences, from serene beaches to misty hill stations, all accessible within a single day.
A top official with the tourism department told TNIE that the move will not only ease travel times for tourists but also serve emergency, medical, and disaster management needs in the state.
“Connectivity is a major concern for people visiting the state. People coming for brief vacations are unable to cover more destinations because of travel time. Scores of tourists are arriving in Kochi, but if they want to visit Munnar, it takes a minimum of four to six hours by road. Helicopter services are going to be a game changer and tourists will be able to reach the destination in an hour by spending `5,000 or so per person,” the official said.
Helicopter services will also benefit pilgrimage tourism by reducing travel time for devotees visiting Sabarimala from distant locations like Andhra Pradesh. “This will allow pilgrims to spend more time at the temple or visit other places of interest,” the official said.
The heli-tourism initiative, launched by the tourism department in December 2023, failed to gain traction initially due to forest department’s restrictions and the absence of a clear policy. Additionally, the state had very few service providers. To address these issues, Kerala Tourism formulated a comprehensive heli-tourism policy, which received cabinet approval in December 2024.
The department will shortlist the applicants and the presentation of the technical proposals will be held on June 23.
“There are not many players in the country and we are expecting five to ten operators to take part in the EoI,” the official said.
The policy outlines plans for the development of heliports, helistations, and support services while mandating compliance with the directorate general of civil aviation and other regulatory bodies. “With minimal land use and high efficiency, helicopter services can offer a game-changing experience to tourists and strengthen regional connectivity,” the official added.