Updated: 16 September 2026: The Lakshadweep Seaplane Service has moved from the planning and trial stage into scheduled passenger operations, creating a new way to travel between Kochi and the Lakshadweep Islands. The current published network covers Kochi, Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Kadmat and Agatti, giving travellers a faster transport option on selected routes.
The service is operated by SkyHop Aviation. Following successful seaplane trials in May 2026, including landings at Agatti and Kavaratti, the service has progressed to a published passenger timetable for September and October 2026.
✈️ Latest Lakshadweep Seaplane Update — September 2026
The current published operating period is 18 September to 14 October 2026. The scheduled network follows the Kochi–Kalpeni–Kavaratti–Kadmat–Agatti island circuit, with individual sectors subject to operational conditions.
Important: Timings, routes and availability can change because of weather, sea and lagoon conditions, aircraft availability, regulatory requirements and operational considerations.
Quick Facts: Lakshadweep Seaplane Service
| Information | Latest Available Details |
|---|---|
| Operator | SkyHop Aviation |
| Mainland departure | Kochi |
| Direct mainland sector | Kochi – Kalpeni |
| Scheduled island destinations | Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Kadmat and Agatti |
| Published operating period | 18 September – 14 October 2026 |
| Regular rotation | From 20 September 2026 |
| Operating days | Daily except Tuesdays |
| Kochi – Kalpeni scheduled time | Approximately 80 minutes |
| Aircraft | Seaplane operated by SkyHop Aviation |
| Current status | Scheduled passenger operations |
| Kiltan | Not included in the current published timetable |
What Is the Lakshadweep Seaplane Service?
A seaplane is an aircraft designed to take off and land on water. Instead of depending exclusively on a conventional airport runway, it can operate from suitable water aerodromes and designated water landing areas.
This type of aircraft is particularly relevant to Lakshadweep because the archipelago consists of numerous coral islands, many of which do not have conventional airports. Travellers traditionally depend on a combination of mainland flights, passenger vessels and smaller boats.
The seaplane service adds another form of connectivity by linking the mainland with selected islands and providing scheduled inter-island sectors.
Is the Lakshadweep Seaplane Service Operating in 2026?
Yes. Scheduled passenger operations are now available during the currently published operating period.
The service follows successful trial operations conducted in May 2026. During those trials, a SkyHop-operated DHC-6-400 Twin Otter landed at Agatti and Kavaratti, demonstrating the feasibility of seaplane operations in Lakshadweep.
The September–October 2026 timetable represents the transition from trial and planning activities to scheduled passenger connectivity.
Travel advisory:
Always check the schedule applicable to your exact travel date before finalising accommodation, permits, ferry connections or onward flights.
Lakshadweep Seaplane Schedule 2026
The currently published schedule covers 18 September to 14 October 2026. The opening dates have separate rotations, followed by the regular timetable from 20 September.
18 September 2026 — Special Schedule
| Sector | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Kochi → Kalpeni | 10:00 AM | 11:20 AM |
| Kalpeni → Kavaratti | 11:40 AM | 12:15 PM |
| Kavaratti → Agatti | 12:35 PM | 12:55 PM |
| Agatti → Kavaratti | 1:15 PM | 1:35 PM |
| Kavaratti → Kalpeni | 2:20 PM | 2:55 PM |
| Kalpeni → Kochi | 3:15 PM | 4:35 PM |
This is a special schedule and is not the regular rotation.
19 September 2026 — Special Schedule
| Sector | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Kochi → Kalpeni | 7:30 AM | 8:50 AM |
| Kalpeni → Kavaratti | 9:10 AM | 9:45 AM |
| Kavaratti → Agatti | 10:05 AM | 10:25 AM |
| Agatti → Kavaratti | 10:45 AM | 11:05 AM |
| Kavaratti → Kadmat | 11:25 AM | 11:50 AM |
| Kadmat → Kavaratti | 12:10 PM | 12:35 PM |
| Kavaratti → Kalpeni | 1:20 PM | 1:55 PM |
| Kalpeni → Kochi | 2:15 PM | 3:35 PM |
20 September – 14 October 2026 — Regular Timetable
The regular published rotation is as follows:
| Sector | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Kochi → Kalpeni | 7:30 AM | 8:50 AM |
| Kalpeni → Kavaratti | 9:10 AM | 9:45 AM |
| Kavaratti → Kadmat | 10:05 AM | 10:30 AM |
| Kadmat → Kavaratti | 10:50 AM | 11:15 AM |
| Kavaratti → Agatti | 11:35 AM | 11:55 AM |
| Agatti → Kavaratti | 12:15 PM | 12:35 PM |
| Kavaratti → Kadmat | 1:20 PM | 1:45 PM |
| Kadmat → Kavaratti | 2:05 PM | 2:30 PM |
| Kavaratti → Kalpeni | 2:50 PM | 3:25 PM |
| Kalpeni → Kochi | 3:45 PM | 5:05 PM |
Tuesday service: The current published timetable does not operate on Tuesdays during this period.
Lakshadweep Seaplane Routes
The current scheduled network follows an island-hopping rotation connecting Kochi, Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Kadmat and Agatti.
Kochi → Kalpeni → Kavaratti → Kadmat → Kavaratti → Agatti → Kavaratti → Kadmat → Kavaratti → Kalpeni → Kochi
Not every destination is served by a nonstop mainland flight. Some journeys require a connection through the published island rotation.
Kochi to Kalpeni
Kochi–Kalpeni is the direct mainland sector shown in the current timetable, with a scheduled journey of approximately 80 minutes.
Kalpeni to Kavaratti
The regular timetable connects Kalpeni and Kavaratti as part of the morning island rotation.
Kavaratti to Agatti
The current network includes scheduled Kavaratti–Agatti and Agatti–Kavaratti sectors.
Kavaratti to Kadmat
Kadmat is included in the regular island rotation, with scheduled sectors in both directions.
Kochi to Kavaratti
Kochi–Kavaratti is currently a connecting journey via Kalpeni, rather than a single nonstop sector.
Kochi to Agatti
The current scheduled network connects Kochi to Agatti through Kalpeni and Kavaratti.
Is Kiltan Included in the Current Seaplane Schedule?
No. Kiltan is not included in the current published September–October 2026 timetable.
Kiltan appeared in earlier planning and partner material relating to the wider proposed Lakshadweep seaplane network. Those earlier plans should not be interpreted as confirmation of a current scheduled passenger service.
Any Kiltan seaplane travel should therefore be separately confirmed before being included in an itinerary.
Lakshadweep Seaplane Fare 2026
Seaplane fares vary according to route, travel date, availability and applicable charges.
SetMyTrip has previously received a fare schedule for Lakshadweep seaplane sectors. The following figures are calculated by adding 20% to those fares provided to SetMyTrip.
| Seaplane Journey | Indicative Fare Per Passenger |
|---|---|
| Kochi → Kalpeni | ₹14,629 |
| Kalpeni → Kavaratti | ₹11,573 |
| Kavaratti → Agatti | ₹9,576 |
| Agatti → Kavaratti | ₹9,576 |
| Kavaratti → Kadmat | ₹11,592 |
| Kadmat → Kavaratti | ₹11,573 |
| Kavaratti → Kiltan | ₹11,592 |
| Kiltan → Kavaratti | ₹11,573 |
| Kavaratti → Kalpeni | ₹11,592 |
| Kalpeni → Kochi | ₹14,579 |
| Kochi → Kavaratti (via Kalpeni) | ₹20,154 |
| Kochi → Agatti (via Kalpeni & Kavaratti) | ₹23,682 |
| Kochi → Kadmat (via Kalpeni & Kavaratti) | ₹23,682 |
| Kavaratti → Kochi (via Kalpeni) | ₹20,123 |
| Agatti → Kadmat (via Kavaratti) | ₹17,136 |
| Kadmat → Kiltan (via Kavaratti) | ₹17,117 |
| Kiltan → Kalpeni (via Kavaratti) | ₹17,117 |
| Kalpeni → Agatti (via Kavaratti) | ₹17,117 |
| Kadmat → Kochi (via Kavaratti & Kalpeni) | ₹23,632 |
| Kadmat → Kalpeni (via Kavaratti) | ₹17,117 |
Indicative fare range: ₹9,576–₹23,682 per passenger.
Fare Disclaimer
These are indicative SetMyTrip fare calculations based on fares previously provided to SetMyTrip, with 20% added. They are not a guaranteed current SkyHop retail tariff. The final amount may vary according to the applicable tariff, travel date, seat availability, taxes, fees and booking conditions.
Kiltan-related fares are retained for reference from earlier fare information and do not indicate that Kiltan is currently part of the scheduled September–October 2026 network.
How to Book a Lakshadweep Seaplane
Seaplane seats are limited, so availability should be checked before finalising accommodation and other island arrangements.
- Choose your destination: Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Agatti or Kadmat.
- Check your travel date: Compare it with the latest available operating schedule.
- Check availability: Confirm that seats are available for your required sector.
- Arrange your permit: Ensure your Lakshadweep entry permit corresponds with your itinerary.
- Coordinate your stay: Match accommodation and transfers with the seaplane schedule.
- Reconfirm before departure: Check the flight status and reporting requirements before travelling.
Read the SetMyTrip Lakshadweep Entry Permit Guide before finalising your trip.
How Much Baggage Is Allowed?
Seaplane baggage restrictions can differ from those of conventional airlines. Passengers should confirm the current checked baggage allowance, cabin baggage rules, excess baggage charges and payload restrictions when booking.
Aircraft payload can be affected by passenger weight, baggage, fuel requirements and operating conditions, so travellers should not assume that a standard airline baggage allowance applies.
What Happens If the Seaplane Is Delayed or Cancelled?
Seaplane operations can be affected by weather and water conditions as well as aircraft and regulatory requirements.
Potential factors include:
- Wind
- Visibility
- Sea state
- Lagoon conditions
- Weather at departure
- Weather at destination
- Aircraft operational requirements
- Regulatory or safety considerations
Travellers should therefore allow sufficient time between the seaplane and any onward flight, ferry or cruise.
Smart Planning Tip:
If you need to catch another flight from Kochi on the same day, allow a substantial buffer instead of relying solely on the scheduled seaplane arrival time.
Seaplane vs Ferry in Lakshadweep
| Feature | Seaplane | Ferry / Boat |
|---|---|---|
| Travel time | Generally faster on applicable sectors | Usually longer |
| Passenger capacity | Limited | Higher on many vessels |
| Experience | Aerial journey | Marine journey |
| Weather sensitivity | High | Weather dependent |
| Island access | Selected scheduled water aerodromes | Broader vessel network depending on schedule |
The seaplane adds another connectivity option; it does not replace Lakshadweep’s existing marine transport network.
Why Seaplanes Matter for Lakshadweep Tourism
Lakshadweep’s geography makes transportation an important part of the holiday experience. A conventional itinerary can involve mainland flights, port or airport transfers, boats, ferries and inter-island connections.
On applicable routes, seaplane connectivity can reduce travel time and make it easier to combine multiple islands within a limited holiday period.
This can be useful for travellers planning:
- Honeymoons
- Family holidays
- Luxury island stays
- Scuba-diving trips
- Photography holidays
- Small private groups
- Short Lakshadweep breaks
Can You Visit Multiple Lakshadweep Islands by Seaplane?
Yes. The current scheduled network connects Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Kadmat and Agatti, allowing suitable itineraries to combine more than one island.
However, the service operates according to scheduled rotations. Accommodation, permits and onward transfers therefore need to be planned around the available flight sectors.
Lakshadweep Seaplane for Honeymoon Trips
Seaplane connectivity can be incorporated into a Lakshadweep honeymoon where flights are available for the required dates and destinations.
Couples can combine selected seaplane sectors with island accommodation, beaches, lagoons, snorkelling, diving and other experiences.
Explore SetMyTrip Lakshadweep Tour Packages →
Lakshadweep Seaplane and Scuba Diving
Faster inter-island connectivity can make multi-island diving itineraries easier to coordinate where suitable flights are available.
Agatti, Kadmat, Kavaratti and Kalpeni offer different island environments and marine experiences. Divers should coordinate flight schedules with their dive operator and observe all applicable diving safety requirements.
Are Bangaram and Thinnakara Available by Scheduled Seaplane?
No scheduled passenger service to Bangaram or Thinnakara is included in the current published timetable.
These destinations may be considered separately for specialised or charter arrangements subject to operator availability, permissions, aircraft positioning, weather and destination access.
Water Aerodromes in Lakshadweep
Water aerodromes provide designated areas and supporting infrastructure for seaplane operations.
Water-aerodrome development is relevant to several Lakshadweep islands, including Agatti, Kavaratti, Kalpeni, Kadmat and Kiltan. However, the existence or development of infrastructure does not by itself mean that a scheduled passenger service operates on every island.
How Fast Is a Kochi to Lakshadweep Seaplane?
The current published timetable gives a scheduled journey of approximately:
Kochi → Kalpeni: approximately 80 minutes
Actual operating time can vary because flights remain subject to weather and operational conditions.
Flight to Agatti vs Lakshadweep Seaplane
A conventional commercial flight to Agatti Airport and the Lakshadweep seaplane are different connectivity options.
The seaplane network provides access to Kalpeni and selected inter-island sectors, while conventional air services continue to provide an important route to Agatti.
Your choice depends on your destination, travel date, available services, accommodation, permit requirements, budget and available holiday time.
History of the Lakshadweep Seaplane Project
Planning Stage
Earlier in 2026, SkyHop shared plans for mainland and inter-island seaplane connectivity involving destinations including Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Agatti, Kadmat and Kiltan.
Those planning-stage routes and fare arrangements evolved as the project progressed and should not be confused with the current published passenger timetable.
May 2026 — Successful Trial
In May 2026, a SkyHop-operated DHC-6-400 Twin Otter successfully conducted seaplane trial operations in Lakshadweep, including landings at Agatti and Kavaratti.
September 2026 — Scheduled Passenger Operations
The project subsequently progressed to a published passenger operating schedule connecting Kochi with Kalpeni and selected Lakshadweep islands.
Planned vs Current Lakshadweep Seaplane Routes
| Route / Destination | Current Position |
|---|---|
| Kochi – Kalpeni | Scheduled |
| Kalpeni – Kavaratti | Scheduled |
| Kavaratti – Agatti | Scheduled |
| Agatti – Kavaratti | Scheduled |
| Kavaratti – Kadmat | Scheduled |
| Kadmat – Kavaratti | Scheduled |
| Kavaratti – Kiltan | Not in current published timetable |
| Kochi – Kiltan | Not in current published timetable |
| Kochi – Bangaram | No scheduled service published |
| Kochi – Thinnakara | No scheduled service published |
Frequently Asked Questions About Lakshadweep Seaplane
Is there a seaplane from Kochi to Lakshadweep?
Yes. The current published schedule provides scheduled seaplane connectivity from Kochi to Kalpeni, with onward connections through the Lakshadweep island network.
How long does Kochi to Kalpeni take by seaplane?
The scheduled Kochi–Kalpeni journey is approximately 80 minutes.
Which islands are connected by the Lakshadweep seaplane?
The current published network covers Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Kadmat and Agatti, with Kochi as the mainland departure point.
Does the Lakshadweep seaplane operate every day?
The current published operating period runs from 18 September to 14 October 2026, with scheduled service daily except Tuesdays.
Is Kiltan connected by seaplane?
Kiltan appeared in earlier planning information but is not included in the current published September–October 2026 timetable.
How much does a Lakshadweep seaplane ticket cost?
Based on fares previously provided to SetMyTrip and with 20% added, the indicative fare figures in this guide range from approximately ₹9,576 to ₹23,682 per passenger. Actual fares should be confirmed before payment.
Can I book Kochi to Kavaratti by seaplane?
The current timetable provides Kochi–Kavaratti as a connecting journey via Kalpeni, rather than a single nonstop sector.
Can I travel from Kavaratti to Agatti by seaplane?
Yes. The current timetable includes Kavaratti–Agatti and Agatti–Kavaratti sectors.
Can I travel from Kavaratti to Kadmat by seaplane?
Yes. The current timetable includes Kavaratti–Kadmat and Kadmat–Kavaratti sectors.
Do I need a Lakshadweep permit?
Travellers visiting Lakshadweep must comply with the applicable entry-permit requirements and ensure that their permit corresponds with their planned itinerary.
Can weather affect a Lakshadweep seaplane?
Yes. Weather, sea and lagoon conditions and other operational factors can affect seaplane operations. Travellers should reconfirm their flight before departure.
Can I combine a seaplane with a Lakshadweep holiday package?
Yes. SetMyTrip can coordinate available seaplane sectors with accommodation, permits, island transfers and sightseeing, subject to availability.
Can I book a private seaplane to Bangaram or Thinnakara?
Charter arrangements may be possible subject to operator availability, permissions, aircraft positioning, weather and destination access. These islands are not currently published as scheduled passenger seaplane destinations.
Plan Your Lakshadweep Seaplane Holiday With SetMyTrip
A seaplane journey is only one component of a Lakshadweep holiday. The itinerary also needs to account for permits, accommodation, island transfers and activities.
SetMyTrip can help coordinate your Lakshadweep trip around the available seaplane schedule, including island stays, sightseeing, water activities and customised travel arrangements.
Latest Lakshadweep Seaplane Update
Last updated: 16 September 2026.
This guide is maintained for Lakshadweep travel planning and is updated when new seaplane schedules and operating information become available.
Routes, timings, fares, baggage allowances and availability can change. Where earlier planning information differs from a newer published schedule, the latest confirmed operating information should take precedence.
Travellers should confirm their flight, reporting time, baggage allowance, fare and operating status before departure.