The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has suspended charter helicopter services along the Char Dham route for the remainder of the pilgrimage season, which concludes on November 16 with the closure of the Badrinath temple. Read on to know more.
Char Dham Helicopter Service Suspended Over Mandatory Two-Pilot Rule
According to Hindustan Times, the decision comes after a meeting between DGCA officials, the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) and helicopter operators on Monday at 11 am failed to resolve differences over the DGCA’s latest directive mandating co-pilots on all flights operating on the Char Dham circuit. The rule was introduced a day after a helicopter returning from Badrinath crashed near Jyotirmath, killing all six people on board.
Several helicopter operators opposed the directive, arguing that implementing the two-pilot requirement would be commercially unviable due to the physical modifications required in their aircraft. Despite their concerns, the DGCA refused to withdraw the order.
Operators Cite Operational And Financial Challenges
Explaining the rationale behind the directive, UCADA Chief Executive Officer Prateek Jain told the portal that the objective was to improve airspace monitoring by ensuring two pilots were present on each flight.
Jain noted that operators had raised concerns about the modifications required for twin-pilot operations, including the installation of additional dual controls and a reduction in passenger capacity to comply with payload limits.
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He further explained that with only seven to eight days remaining in the pilgrimage season, completing the necessary modifications would take considerable time and would not be commercially viable for operators.
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FAQs
What is the cost of Char Dham Yatra by helicopter?
The cost of the Char Dham Yatra by helicopter typically ranges from ₹1,45,000 to ₹2,50,000 per person, depending on the package duration, operator, and inclusions.
How risky is Char Dham Yatra?
Is Char Dham Yatra Safe? | Must-Know Tips and GuidelinesThe Char Dham Yatra is considered a moderately to highly demanding pilgrimage primarily due to high-altitude conditions, cardiac health risks, and rugged mountain terrain rather than random violence.
Which is the toughest dham in India?
Kedarnath is the toughest dham in India.
