The DGCA has granted permission for the resumption of helicopter services for the Char Dham Yatra in 2025, providing a significant boost to pilgrims. The decision follows the improvement in weather conditions after a decrease in monsoon activity. The review meeting, overseen by the Minister of Civil Aviation, prioritized improving the safety and security protocols for the pilgrimage.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has instructed the DGCA to adopt stringent safety measures, with no compromise on safety standards. The ministry worked alongside the Uttarakhand government, involving Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, through a series of review meetings to improve coordination between different agencies involved in the operations.
The DGCA conducted an assessment of all operational aspects of helicopter services. The assessment, carried out between September 13th and 16th, encompassed the examination of helipads, helicopters, and the operational readiness of the service providers. As a result of this comprehensive assessment, the DGCA has authorized the resumption of helicopter operations. In addition, all operators and pilots received detailed information on the challenges and the extra safety precautions to be taken when operating during the pilgrimage.
The ministry underlined the critical role of helicopter services in facilitating smoother access for pilgrims to the high-altitude religious sites in Uttarakhand. The DGCA will maintain close oversight of helicopter operations to ensure safety and efficiency. This follows incidents that happened in the Char Dham sector earlier this year. Various committees have recommended strengthened safety measures to ensure safe helicopter operations.
Key Helicopter Services:
Charter services will operate from Sahastradhara, Dehradun, to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
Shuttle services will be available from Guptkashi, Phata, and Sitapur clusters to Shri Kedarnath Ji Helipad.
Six operators will be providing helicopter shuttle services from the Guptkashi, Phata, Sitapur clusters, while seven operators will conduct charter flights from Dehradun (Sahastradhara).
Before embarking on the helicopter, passengers will be informed about safety procedures, including seat belt usage, proper boarding and disembarking practices, and emergency response protocols.