After several incidents of helicopter crashes that happened during the Uttarakhand Chardham Yatra in the recent past, DGCA has taken a big action. DGCA has banned the operation of Kestrel Aviation Private Limited in Uttarakhand till the investigation is completed.
The operation of the aviation company will remain closed till the investigation
Recently, a helicopter of Crystal Aviation Private Limited crash landed in Sirsi while flying from Badasu helipad on the Kedarnath Yatra route. Due to technical fault, the helicopter had to land on the middle of the road. At the time of the accident, there were 6 people including the pilot in the helicopter. The pilot suffered some injuries in this accident while the rest were safe. After this incident, DGCA took action and banned the operation of Kestrel Aviation Private Limited till the investigation is completed.
Order to increase surveillance for helicopter operators
According to the press release issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, an order has been given to increase surveillance for helicopter operators operating shuttle services and charters in Uttarakhand. Let us tell you that DGCA has taken this action after 4 helicopter accidents in Uttarakhand within a month.
Operation on OGE conditions banned for helicopter operators
After continuous accidents, safety investigation has been started to identify mechanical failure, operational error and weather related challenges along with other factors for helicopter accidents. Along with this, operation on OGE (Out of Ground Effect) conditions has been banned for all helicopter operators in Uttarakhand till further orders. DGCA says that as a precaution, helicopter operations in Chardham can be reduced if needed.