Mumbai-Ratnagiri Seaplane Project Takes First Step as MMB Launches Feasibility Study

The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) has taken the first step towards launching a seaplane service between Mumbai and Ratnagiri, a project aimed at improving connectivity and giving a significant boost to tourism in the Konkan region.

As part of the preliminary process, the board will conduct feasibility studies at Bhagwati and Bhatye in Ratnagiri district to determine whether the locations are suitable for seaplane operations. The proposal follows Maharashtra Ports and Fisheries Minister Uday Samant's recent announcement about introducing the service to promote tourism and strengthen regional transport.

The proposal has already been discussed with the Industries Department and will now be placed before the Maharashtra Maritime Board for formal approval. Since the board functions through an independent governing body, the project must receive the required statutory, legal and administrative clearances before moving to the next stage.

Once approvals are secured, experts will begin a comprehensive technical assessment of the proposed route and operating locations. The study will evaluate key factors such as sea currents, tidal patterns, wind conditions and the availability of safe landing and take-off zones. Based on these findings, a detailed technical report will determine whether commercial seaplane operations are feasible.

In parallel, the MMB will appoint an independent financial consultant to examine the commercial viability of the project. The study will assess expected operating costs, projected passenger demand and pricing strategies to ensure the service remains both affordable for travellers and financially sustainable for the operator.

The final route, flight schedule and ticket fares will be decided only after the technical and financial evaluations are completed.

If the project is approved and implemented, the Mumbai–Ratnagiri seaplane service is expected to substantially reduce travel time between the two destinations. The initiative is also expected to boost tourism, improve regional connectivity and support the local economy across the Konkan coast.