Seaplane in Tura Soon? Here is What CM Conrad Sangma Said
First Published: 14th November, 2024 19:06 IST
A new reservoir project in Tura could serve dual purposes addressing water scarcity while offering a possible site for seaplane operations.
Is Meghalaya going to have seaplanes soon? Well, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma today said that Meghalaya with its rugged landscape and high rainfall and water bodies has the potential to launch seaplane operations and this would further boost connectivity and tourism of the state in the region.
Speaking about the potential for seaplane operations, CM Sangma highlighted that seaplanes require only a 200-meter water body with a 5-meter depth to take off and land. With Meghalaya’s rugged landscape and high rainfall, creating such water bodies is both feasible and cost-effective compared to building conventional runways. Sangma noted that a new reservoir project in Tura could serve dual purposes addressing water scarcity while offering a possible site for seaplane operations in the future. However, Sangma underscored that the seaplane initiative would need a comprehensive support ecosystem to be successful.
CM Sangma was speaking at the seaplane demonstration event at Umiam Lake where Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu was present.
Addressing broader aviation challenges in Meghalaya, CM Sangma reiterated the importance of expanding Umroi Airport’s runway to accommodate mid-sized aircraft like the Airbus A320. He also expressed optimism about operationalizing Tura’s Baljek Airport with support from the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
With a Skyscanner Travel Trends Report projecting Shillong among India’s top tourist destination by 2025, he highlighted the state’s ongoing preparations, including plans for a 7-star hotel at Umiam, which align with tourism goals and underscore the seaplane project’s potential to foster economic growth.
Civil Aviation Minister Naidu, in his address, emphasized India’s extensive potential for seaplane operations, given its 1,300 islands, numerous rivers, lakes, and long coastline. He reiterated his ministry’s commitment to improving aviation infrastructure in Meghalaya, including developing Umiam Airport and ensuring that aviation policies support regional growth.
The demonstration showcased an amphibious aircraft manufactured by De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited and operated by SpiceJet.
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