Mumbai is all set to get its first seaplane service to Maharashtra’s most popular tourist destinations from next June itself. So, those who wish to travel to Lonavala, Shirdi, Murud-Janjira or Bhandardhara, they will have the option of flying to the mentioned tourist spots. This will also include a commuter service from Juhu to Nariman Point for just Rs 750.    

Having received all necessary aviation, tourism and security clearances, Maritime Energy Heli Air Services (MEHAIR), which operates seaplane services in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is ready to launch services in Maharashtra with Mumbai as its base. A top Airport Authority of India (AAI) official in Mumbai said that the company applied for government and aviation-related clearances at the end of 2012.    

MEHAIR has received all necessary clearances from the government. It has asked the government to provide hanger and parking facilities for the operator on priority. the sources said. MEHAIR will use Cessna 208 (amphibian) aircraft, which can accommodate up to nine passengers.    

Top officials from MEHAIR said that tourist destinations covered in the first phase include Lonavla, Murud-Janjira, Bhandardhara and Shirdi. There will also be a commuter service from Juhu to Nariman Point.