Unbelievable, but India set to get water aerodromes now

It may sound strange and too early for some, but reality is that soon we will be able to see water aerodromes, where amphibian planes can land and takeoff, because aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has now issued licensing norms for setting up such facilities. The initiative on part of the government is to enhance air connectivity as airlines look at ways to expand in this regard. 
 
With the DGCA permission, water aerodromes will help pave the way for operations of seaplanes, which are also known as amphibian aircraft. According to the DGCA, the country is expected to witness an increase in area of aircraft operations, including the seaplanes.
 
The DGCA statement said, "This will also require operation of seaplanes from coastal/ river/ canal as well as terrestrial water bodies. Thus, there is a necessity to regulate these water bodies for seaplane operations on regular basis through license by the DGCA." 
 
The regulator has reportedly issued the Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) on procedures and requirements for licensing of water aerodrome.
 
"Initially, a provisional license shall be issued for a period of six months during which implementation of the water aerodrome operation is monitored... Regular license shall be accorded after post implementation monitoring period and completion of corrective action," the DGCA said.
 
The formal application to set up a water aerodrome has to be submitted at least 90 days before date of intended operations. Under the aviation regulations, an aerodrome cannot be used for scheduled air transport services, among others, unless there is a license.
 
In October 2017, no-frills carrier SpiceJet had reportedly unveiled plans to buy over 100 amphibian planes, estimated to cost USD 400 million. The airline had also signed a memorandum of understanding with Japan's Setouchi Holdings to explore whether the amphibian planes can be used by the airline in a cost-effective manner. 
 
Notably, water aerodrome is a defined area on water, including any buildings, installations and equipment, intended to be used either wholly or in part for the arrival, departure and movement of aircraft.
 
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According to the DGCA, an entity seeking to set up a water aerodrome has to take approvals from various authorities, including the ministries of Defence, Home, Environment and Forests, and Shipping. A water aerodrome license would be valid for two years.