Pilots demand upgraded weather systems and co-pilot mandate for Char Dham helicopter routes
· Automobile · The New Indian Express, NDTV, The Hindu
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has mandated twin-pilot operations for all helicopter services operating to the Char Dham pilgrimage sites starting Monday, replacing single-pilot flights. Pilots have called for upgraded weather detection and forecasting systems along these mountainous routes, citing safety concerns amid unpredictable terrain conditions. Helicopter operators have threatened to suspend Char Dham services if their demands for better infrastructure and dual-pilot norms are not met. The mandate applies to all helicopter operators ferrying pilgrims to the four Uttarakhand shrines — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath.
Why it matters
The new DGCA mandate directly impacts thousands of pilgrims and operators relying on Char Dham helicopter services, raising concerns about flight availability and operational costs. Pilots argue upgraded weather systems are critical for safety in the challenging Himalayan terrain, while operators warn that suspension of services would disrupt access to the shrines during peak pilgrimage season.
Read the original report — The New Indian Express
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