Dehradun: Helicopter services to Kedarnath Dham have been officially suspended for the monsoon season, with operations expected to resume after the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) decision, once weather conditions stabilize. The decision comes in the wake of monsoon arrival, persistent bad weather, a fatal crash on June 15, and mounting concerns over aviation safety in the fragile Himalayan terrain.
The monsoon season, which brings unpredictable weather, low visibility, and frequent cloud cover, poses significant risks to aviation in high-altitude regions like Kedarnath. The suspension is a precautionary measure to prevent further mishaps and ensure the safety of pilgrims and crew.
First phase of Heli-services witnessed emergency landings and a tragic accident
The first phase of heli operations, which began on May 2, was marred by frequent flight cancellations, emergency landings, and ultimately, a tragic accident that claimed six lives. The Aryan Aviation helicopter crash near Gauri Mai Khark, en route from Kedarnath to Guptkashi, prompted the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to halt all heli services temporarily and initiate a comprehensive safety review.
All six operating companies have withdrawn their helicopters from Kedar Valley
According to District Tourism Officer Rahul Chaubey, no bookings were made beyond June 22, and all six operating companies have withdrawn their helicopters from Kedar Valley. “We are awaiting further instructions from the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA),” he said to News9live, confirming that services may resume only after the monsoon ends.
The first phase saw financial losses exceeding Rs 8.65 crore
The first phase of operations saw over 13,000 ticket cancellations, resulting in financial losses exceeding Rs 8.65 crore for heli operators. The DGCA also suspended the licenses of two Trans Bharat pilots for violating weather protocols and launched an investigation into Aryan Aviation’s management.
Uttarakhand govt has formed a 10-member committee to draft a SOP
In response to the growing number of incidents—five helicopter-related mishaps in 45 days—the Uttarakhand government has formed a 10-member committee to draft a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for heli services. Headed by Home Secretary Shailesh Bagoli, the committee includes representatives from the DGCA, Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, Meteorological Department, and UCADA, among others.
The committee is tasked with analyzing the causes of recent accidents and recommending improvements in pilot training, weather monitoring, air traffic control, and emergency preparedness. It will also suggest technical upgrades, including the use of twin-engine helicopters, real-time weather cameras, and command-and-control centers. The final report is expected by August 15.
Uttarakhand High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the June 15 crash
Meanwhile, the Uttarakhand High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the June 15 crash and demanded a detailed explanation from the state government regarding safety lapses. The court emphasized the need for a robust aviation policy tailored to the unique challenges of the Himalayan region.
With the suspension of heli services, lakhs of devotees still expected to visit the shrine on foot or by mule, the administration is focusing on crowd management and weather preparedness until air services resume in the post-monsoon phase.
