In a landmark decision, Kerala’s state cabinet, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, has granted in-principle approval for its ambitious Heli-Tourism Policy. This transformative initiative will elevate Kerala’s position in the global luxury travel market by creating a comprehensive helicopter service network, connecting key tourist destinations across the state with unparalleled ease and efficiency.

The policy is a bold step forward in enhancing infrastructure, catering to high-value travellers, and improving connectivity to some of Kerala’s most remote yet stunning locales. It promises to unlock a new era of convenience and exclusivity, positioning the state as an innovative and sustainable tourism leader.

Infrastructure Development to Lead the Way

Central to the policy is establishing state-of-the-art heliports, strategically located heli-stations, and helipads. Major heliports will be developed at Thiruvananthapuram Airport, Kochi Airport, and Kannur/Kozhikode Airport, serving as primary hubs for helicopter operations. These facilities, which require a minimum of 10 acres and a ?20 crore investment, will feature modern terminal buildings, hangars, fueling stations, and air traffic control systems. Designed to accommodate up to 16 helicopters with nine parking bays and seating 150 passengers, these heliports will serve as the backbone of Kerala’s heli-tourism ambitions.

Smaller heli-stations will be established near top tourist destinations, including Varkala, Jatayupara, Ponmudi, Munnar, Kumarakom, Alleppey, Thekkady, Palakkad, Bekal, and Wayanad. These will cater to intercity transfers and last-mile connectivity, enhancing access to Kerala’s diverse attractions. With a lower investment threshold of ?5 crores and land requirements of just 3-5 acres, these stations promise a nimble and scalable approach to tourism infrastructure development.

Helipads will complement these facilities as simple landing platforms for specific tourism nodes. This infrastructure trifecta aims to provide seamless connectivity, reduce travel times, and offer an exclusive travel experience to high-net-worth individuals and adventure seekers alike.

Catalyst for Luxury Tourism and Economic Growth

Kerala’s heli-tourism policy is expected to drive significant economic benefits by attracting private investment and catering to a burgeoning demand for luxury and experiential travel. Currently, helicopter services in Kerala rely on rentals from Bengaluru, costing up to ? 8 lakh for intercity transfers. By establishing local infrastructure, the state aims to make these services more affordable and accessible, creating new opportunities for tourism operators and travellers.

Tour operators have lauded the move as a game-changer. “This initiative will attract elite travellers while improving connectivity between cities and remote attractions,” said a Kerala Travel Operators Association spokesperson. The policy’s mandate for operators to provide helicopters for emergency services, such as disaster relief, organ transport, and rescue missions during natural calamities, further underscores its societal value.

Public-Private Partnerships and Sustainable Development

Kerala’s approach to heli-tourism emphasizes public-private partnerships (PPPs) as a cornerstone for success. Government-owned land will be leveraged wherever possible, while private operators will be selected through competitive bidding processes. Revenue models will include fixed fees per passenger and land lease agreements. Sometimes, the state government may directly fund development through Viability Gap Funding models to ensure feasibility.

Sustainability lies at the heart of the policy. Kerala aims to set new benchmarks for responsible tourism by prioritising eco-friendly operations and integrating community involvement. Michael Dominic, Convener of the CII Kerala Tourism Panel, highlighted the importance of strategic investments and competitive pricing. “This policy is transformative. It has the potential to redefine travel experiences, placing Kerala on the global map as a premier destination for luxury tourism,” he remarked.

Strategic Vision for a World-Class Destination

The heli-tourism initiative aligns with Kerala’s broader sustainable and inclusive growth vision. The policy supports Kerala’s reputation as a world-class travel destination by enabling faster intercity travel and enhancing access to interior regions. Additionally, the focus on emergency services ensures the infrastructure’s utility extends beyond tourism, benefiting communities across the state.

Kerala’s tourism authorities are optimistic about the policy’s impact. With plans to roll out infrastructure swiftly and invite private investments, the state is poised to witness a significant boost in high-value tourism. From the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey to the misty hills of Munnar, heli-tourism promises to redefine how visitors experience “God’s Own Country.”

Conclusion: A New Dawn for Kerala Tourism

As the heli-tourism policy takes flight, Kerala stands at the cusp of a transformative era in luxury travel. By combining strategic infrastructure investments with a commitment to sustainability, the state is poised to set new standards in experiential tourism. Whether catering to elite travellers or improving access to remote regions, Kerala’s heli-tourism initiative is a bold step toward reimagining travel experiences and driving economic growth.

 

 

 

Written by: Michelle Warner

 

 

 

 

 

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