In a major boost for tourism in Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Union Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Saturday launched a trial run of a d seaplane between Srisailam and Vijayawada, marking the first seaplane operation in the state.

“The 45-minute rapid service will improve tourism, employment and access to destinations such as the ancient Shiva temple of Srisailam, the tiger reserve and the iconic dam,” Naidu said in a post maiden flight from Prakasam Dam from Vijayawada to Srisailam.

Stating that seaplanes are used for purposes other than tourism, he said: “They (seaplane services) are also used for emergency services and transportation.”

The Andhra Pradesh government plans to expand water aerodromes, thereby connecting the most remote areas of the state.

The De Havilland Twin Otter Classic 300 seaplane, which arrived from Ahmedabad, took off from a newly laid 500-meter runway near Prakasam Dam, where a 2-kilometer waterway has been designated for its movement. The 120 meter wide runway includes a turn towards the shore, with a jetty prepared for landing.

Observation areas have been set up at Punnami Ghat and Durga Ghat, while security has been beefed up around the test launch site.

The seaplane would continue its journey to Mysuru and Lakshadweep in a launch ceremony across India.

India first introduced seaplane services in Gujarat four years ago, and the Twin Otter Classic 300 will soon visit other cities designated for seaplane routes across the country.