Helicopter Accident Reported in Kedarnath Sector Today
Aryan Aviation’s Bell 407 helicopter, registered as VT-BKA, was involved in a tragic accident today while operating between Shri Kedarnath Ji and Aryan Helipad in Guptkashi. The helicopter had five passengers, including an infant, and one crew member on board. After taking off from Guptkashi at 5:10 AM and landing at the Kedarnath helipad shortly after, the helicopter crashed near Gaurikund within a 15-minute window. Preliminary investigations suggest that poor visibility may have contributed to the incident, prompting immediate rescue operations and a high-level response from state officials.
Details of the Accident
The unfortunate incident occurred shortly after the helicopter’s departure from the Kedarnath helipad. It took off at 5:19 AM but reportedly crashed between 5:30 and 5:45 AM near Gaurikund. Initial assessments indicate that the helicopter may have been operating under Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT) conditions, which often occurs when an aircraft is flown into the ground or water without the pilot’s awareness. The area was experiencing poor visibility and extensive cloud cover at the time of the crash. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has been tasked with conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.
Rescue Operations and Immediate Response
Rescue operations are currently underway, involving teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). These teams are working diligently to reach the crash site and provide assistance. In response to the accident, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, convened a high-level meeting with senior officials, including the Secretary of Civil Aviation and representatives from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
As a precautionary measure, operations of Aryan Aviation for the Char Dham Yatra have been suspended immediately. Additionally, two helicopters from TransBharat Aviation, which were found to be airborne under similar adverse weather conditions, have led to the suspension of their pilots’ licenses for six months.
Safety Measures and Regulatory Actions
In light of the accident, the government has taken several immediate actions to enhance safety protocols in the region. All charter and shuttle helicopter operations have been suspended for June 15 and 16, 2025, to ensure the safety of passengers. The Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) has been directed to conduct a comprehensive review with all operators and pilots before any services can resume.
Furthermore, UCADA will establish a dedicated Command-and-Control Room to monitor real-time operations and respond to any risk indicators promptly. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has emphasized that aviation safety is paramount and has instructed the DGCA to oversee all helicopter activities in the Kedarnath valley rigorously.
Commitment to Aviation Safety
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that no operator conducts flights that violate weather-related protocols. Strict instructions have been issued to the DGCA to enforce existing regulations and maintain discipline in flying operations. The ministry’s focus remains on safeguarding human life and ensuring that all aviation activities adhere to the highest safety standards. The tragic accident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of safety in aviation operations, especially in challenging weather conditions.
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