'2 Pilots Mandatory': DGCA Tightens Char Dham Helicopter Norms After Uttarakhand Crash; Operators Threaten Shutdown

Helicopter operators threaten to suspend Char Dham services over co-pilot rule

Char Dham helicopter services face suspension from November 2 as operators oppose the DGCA’s mandatory two-pilot requirement for every charter flight.

Char Dham helicopter operators threaten to halt services over DGCA's two-pilot rule

Operators say mandate brought in following Joshimath crash not financially viable; accuse authorities of ignoring concerns over safety hazards, particularly drones and paragliding activity along flying routes

'2 pilots mandatory': DGCA tightens Char Dham helicopter norms after Uttarakhand crash; operators threaten shutdown

The DGCA also directed that crews obtain positive destination and enroute clearance from the control room at Sahastradhara before taking off for each sector.

Helicopter firms may suspend Chardham charters, oppose DGCA’s twin pilot rule

The operators have said that any additional safety measures must be practical, proportionate, commercially sustainable and developed in consultation with stakeholders

Char Dham Helicopter Operators Threaten To Stop Services Over 2-Pilot Rule

Opposing the directive, helicopter operators have described the requirement as financially unviable and announced their proposal to suspend charter services until the matter is reviewed.

DGCA mandates twin pilot operations from Monday, chopper operators threaten to suspend Char Dam flights

NEW DELHI: Chopper operations on Char Dham routes could come to standstill from Monday.