The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is taking a firm stance on the safety of helicopter operations for the Char Dham Yatra following a concerning series of accidents. In the past month alone, there have been four helicopter incidents along the pilgrimage route, prompting the aviation regulator to consider curtailing operations if necessary. The DGCA has already initiated special audits and increased surveillance of helicopter services in the Uttarakhand region.
The recent incidents have raised serious questions about the safety standards being followed by helicopter operators. The most recent mishap occurred on June 7, 2025, when a Kestrel Aviation helicopter carrying pilgrims to Kedarnath made a hard landing near the Bharasu helipad in Rudraprayag. Initial reports suggest a problem with the collective control, forcing the pilot to execute a controlled landing on the road. While all passengers were safe, the pilot was evaluated for back pain, and the tail of the helicopter broke during the landing.
This incident followed a series of other alarming events. On May 8, 2025, a Trans Aviation helicopter crashed near Jhala, killing all six people on board. Just days later, on May 13, another helicopter returning from Badrinath experienced a technical fault, wobbling mid-flight and requiring an emergency landing. On May 17, an air ambulance crashed in the Kedarnath area. Furthermore, an incident was averted on May 12 when a helicopter blade hit a vehicle at the Badrinath helipad.
In response to these incidents, the DGCA has taken immediate action. Oversight has been enhanced through active monitoring of live camera feeds from the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) at Kedarnath. This allows for real-time detection of any deviations from standard operating procedures (SOPs). Two helicopter operators were recently found to have violated SOPs regarding helicopter parking procedures and were immediately suspended. The DGCA has also asked UCADA to ensure compliance with a pre-flight checklist, including pilot details, airworthiness, and safety aspects.
The challenging terrain and unpredictable weather in the Char Dham region contribute to the risks faced by helicopter operators. High altitudes impact engine efficiency, and pilots must carefully consider weather conditions, temperature, and payload before each flight. Some sources suggest that the high frequency of trips, from morning to evening, to places such as Kedarnath, can make regular maintenance and prevention of pilot fatigue difficult.
The DGCA is also focusing on pilot training and adherence to safety guidelines. They have introduced an additional hill check for pilots operating at high-altitude helipads and are emphasizing the importance of adequate rest for pilots. The regulator has issued advisories cautioning operators against compromising safety to meet the high demand for bookings, and emphasizing the need to recalculate and reduce loads in response to increasing ambient temperatures and humidity.
The Uttarakhand government has also taken steps to address safety concerns. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has stated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and well-organized Char Dham Yatra. Security arrangements have been tightened, and pilgrims are being urged to follow safety guidelines. The government is also working to improve facilities for pilgrims, including medical assistance, accommodation, and crowd control measures.
While helicopter services provide a convenient way for pilgrims to access the Char Dham shrines, safety remains a paramount concern. The DGCA's increased scrutiny and potential curtailment of operations reflect a commitment to ensuring that these services operate safely. As investigations into the recent accidents continue, further measures may be implemented to mitigate risks and protect the lives of pilgrims.
