In a significant move to promote high-end tourism and improve regional connectivity, the Kerala government has invited Expressions of Interest (EoI) from certified helicopter service operators and aggregators to operate heli-tourism services across the state.
The initiative aims to provide regular, safe, and efficient aerial transport connecting key tourist destinations including Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarakom, Vagamon, and Bekal. The Tourism Department stated that this development is part of a larger strategy to position Kerala as a premium travel destination, offering quick access to a variety of experiences—from beaches to hill stations—within a single day.
A senior tourism official said the introduction of helicopter services would significantly reduce travel time for tourists, particularly those visiting the state for short durations. “Many tourists arrive in Kochi but are unable to visit places like Munnar due to long road journeys of four to six hours. Helicopter travel can cut this time down to under an hour at an approximate cost of INR 5,000 per person,” the official said.
The services are also expected to benefit pilgrimage tourism, especially for devotees visiting Sabarimala from states like Andhra Pradesh. Faster aerial access would allow pilgrims to spend more time at the temple or explore nearby attractions.
The heli-tourism initiative was originally launched in December 2023 but faced delays due to forest department restrictions and the lack of a comprehensive policy. Additionally, the state had few helicopter service providers, limiting the programme’s initial reach. In response, Kerala Tourism formulated a dedicated heli-tourism policy, which received Cabinet approval in December 2024.
With the policy in place, the department has now reopened bids, and technical presentations from shortlisted applicants are scheduled for June 23. “We expect participation from around five to ten operators, given that there are only a few major players in the country,” the official added.
The approved policy includes provisions for the development of heliports, helistations, and support infrastructure, all in compliance with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and other regulatory authorities.
Officials emphasized that helicopter tourism services would involve minimal land use and offer high operational efficiency, potentially transforming tourist mobility and improving access to remote locations in the state.
The Tourism Department sees the project as a long-term investment in sustainable and premium tourism, with the potential to attract both domestic and international travelers seeking faster, more convenient travel options.
