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Key Points

The AAIB will investigate the helicopter crash near Gaurikund, which killed all seven onboard. DGCA has reduced Char Dham flight frequencies as a precaution. Rescue operations are ongoing, with SDRF teams deployed. Bad weather is suspected as the primary cause of the crash.

Key Points: AAIB Probes Uttarakhand Chopper Crash Near Gaurikund

  • AAIB to investigate crash near Gaurikund
  • DGCA cuts Char Dham helicopter frequencies
  • All 7 onboard feared dead due to bad weather
  • Rescue ops halt shuttle services
2 min read

U'khand chopper crash: Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau to carry out probe

DGCA confirms AAIB investigation into fatal helicopter crash near Kedarnath, reducing Char Dham flights amid rescue ops and bad weather.

"Rescue operation is underway, SDRF teams have reached the spot. – Sonika, UCADA CEO"

Dehradun, June 15

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) will investigate Sunday morning's helicopter crash near Gaurikund in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag District, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) stated.

The DGCA further said that, in light of the crash, the frequencies of helicopter operations to Char Dham would be reduced as a precautionary measure.

Enhanced surveillance and operational reviews are also being carried out by DGCA.

"Today, Aryan Aviation Bell 407 helicopter VT-BKA operating flight on sector Shri Kedarnath ji- Aryan Helipad, Guptkanshi, was involved in an accident. There were five passengers, one infant and one crew member on board. The helicopter took off at 05:19 hours for Guptkanshi and crashed near Gaurikund," DGCA said providing details of the crash.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Department (UCADA), Sonika, stated that helicopter shuttle services in the area had been closed given the ongoing relief operations and weather conditions in the valley .

Sonika further stated that the District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) will reach the site soon.

"Since the rescue operation is underway and seeing the weather conditions in the valley, our shuttle services have been closed. Almost all the helicopters are involved in the rescue operation. DM and SSP will also reach the site soon," Sonika told ANI.

"At around 5:30 AM, we got the information that a helicopter, which was going from Shri Kedarnath Dham to Guptkashi, could not be located. After some time, it was learnt that it had crashed near Gaurikund. Rescue operation is underway, SDRF teams have reached the spot. A total of 6 passengers and one pilot were on board the helicopter..." she further said.

All seven people onboard the helicopter, including the pilot, that crashed near the forested area of Gaurikund early today are feared dead, the State Disaster Response Force said.

According to preliminary information, the helicopter operated by Aryan Aviation crashed due to inclement weather.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
Very tragic news 😔 These helicopter services in hilly areas always carry some risk. Authorities must ensure proper weather monitoring systems are in place before allowing flights. My heart goes out to the families who lost their loved ones during their pilgrimage.
P
Priya M.
Why was the helicopter allowed to take off at 5:19 AM in what appears to be bad weather conditions? The investigation must look into whether proper protocols were followed. Safety should never be compromised, especially in difficult terrain like Uttarakhand.
A
Amit S.
This is heartbreaking. Just imagine - people going for Char Dham yatra with their families meet such fate. DGCA should conduct surprise checks on all helicopter operators in hilly regions. Jai Uttarakhand! 🙏
S
Sunita R.
The Uttarakhand government must improve infrastructure for pilgrims. Many take helicopters because roads are bad or nonexistent. Better roads = fewer people forced to take risky flights. #SafetyFirst
V
Vikram J.
While the investigation is important, right now our focus should be on supporting the rescue teams and families affected. The weather in those areas can change within minutes - pilots need better real-time weather updates.
N
Neha P.
So sad to hear about the infant on board 😢 The Char Dham yatra season sees maximum helicopter traffic. Maybe DGCA should limit the number of flights per day to ensure proper maintenance and safety checks are done properly.

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