Parliament Question: Seaplane connectivity under UDAN 5.5 in Andhra Pradesh

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. : 197 TO BE ANSWERED ON THE 2nd February 2026 SEAPLANE CONNECTIVITY UNDER UDAN 5.5 IN ANDHRA PRADESH 197. SHRI MASTHAN RAO YADAV BEEDHA Will the Minister of CIVIL AVIATION be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Central Government in coordination with Government of Andhra Pradesh, proposes to prioritise and operationalise seaplane connectivity in the State under UDAN 5.5, covering the ten identified locations; (b) whether a time-bound roadmap has been finalised or is under consideration for seaplane operations in the State of Andhra Pradesh, including feasibility studies, clearances and pilot routes and if so, the details thereof; and (c) whether Government proposes to provide financial support/viability gap funding and integrate seaplane services with tourism development in the State and if so, the details thereof? ANSWER Minister of State in the Ministry of CIVIL AVIATION (Shri Murlidhar Mohol) (a) to (c): Ten waterbodies (Nine under the UDAN 5.5 and One under UDAN 3.0) in Andhra Pradesh have been identified for development and sea plane operations. These aerodromes shall be developed by the State Government and development funds have been allocated under the Revival and Development scheme of airports, heliports and water aerodromes, subject to the feasibility of seaplane operations. The UDAN scheme offers financial incentives to airlines through Central/State Government and airport operator concessions, along with Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to cover cost- revenue gaps. ******