Kerala offers immense opportunities for Heli-Tourism and helicopter operators can chalk out their plans in various areas related to tourism, ambulance services, casualty evacuation, VVIP movement, extending assistance during natural calamities etc, according to Dr C.G. Krishnadas Nair, Managing Director, Cochin International Airport Ltd.
Speaking at a day long seminar on Heli-Tourism held for the first time in Kerala, he said CIAL as an international airport is willing to provide facilities for helicopter operations. CIAL is all set to construct a heliport and this will be a boon for Heli operators for their future plans. In his inaugural address Mr J. K. Dadoo, Administrator, Lakshadweep, explained the possibilities and new avenues waiting for such operators at Lakshadweep.
A string of islands lying not far away from the Kerala has every chance for such service, and in fact, Lakshadweep is really craving for such big chance and opportunity.
He offered all assistance possible to Heli operators in performing their operation. Even Kerala Tourism could be connected with Lakshadweep and by this both of them get good fortunes, he added.
Medical field
Dr Philip Augustine, Managing Director, Lakeshore Hospital, narrated the requirements of Heli lift to patients who needs immediate medical attention.
Later, at the technical session, Mr Rohit Kumar, India Representative- Eurocopter, spoke on the aspects of boosting the economic development of Kerala through Eurocopter's aircraft.
With plans to promote Kochi as the heli-hub for travel between cities in the State, Eurocopter has introduced the AS 350 B 3 Ecureuil and EC 130 B 4 helicopters that will best meet the needs in the areas of heli tourism and emergency medical services.