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Dehradun: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has given the green signal to restart Char Dham helicopter services from 15/16 September 2025 after the monsoon break.
This decision comes after a rigorous inspection of safety arrangements and a clear directive from Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu for zero tolerance towards any lapses in safety.
Multiple meetings to improve coordination and implement all recommended safety measures
In light of previous helicopter accidents in the Char Dham sector earlier this year (May–June 2025), the government has taken strong steps to ensure safer operations. The Civil Aviation Minister, along with Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, held multiple meetings with the DGCA, Airports Authority of India (AAI), and Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) to improve coordination and implement all recommended safety measures.
Detailed inspection of all helipads, helicopters and ground support
A detailed inspection of all helipads, helicopters, operator preparedness, and ground support was carried out by DGCA teams from 13 to 16 September 2025. Only after successful audits and safety confirmations, approvals were granted to helicopter operators and UCADA for restarting services.
The helicopter operations are divided into two main types:
Charter Services – From Dehradun (Sahastradhara Helipad) to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
Shuttle Services – To Kedarnath Helipad from Guptkashi, Phata, and Sitapur.
Six helicopter operators will provide shuttle services from Guptkashi/Phata/Sitapur, and seven operators/consortiums will run charter flights from Dehradun.
Key strategic safety measures taken:
1. Pilot training & qualifications
Only highly trained and previously qualified pilots will fly in the Chardham sector. Pilots must undergo mandatory route checks and recurrent training focused on high-altitude flying and difficult weather conditions.
2. Airworthiness oversight
All helicopters must pass strict technical inspections. Increased frequency of maintenance checks during the operating season.
3. Operational safety
Strict rules on weight and balance limits to ensure safe landings on tricky terrain. Use of modern navigation and communication tools for better situational awareness. Real-time weather updates to pilots through a dedicated weather system.
4. Passenger safety
Every passenger will receive safety instructions before boarding. More ground safety staff will be deployed at helipads to guide and assist pilgrims.
5. On-Ground monitoring
DGCA has deployed teams at major helipads to monitor live operations. Surprise checks and audits will be conducted to ensure that operators follow safety rules strictly.
To further boost safety, Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) and Meteorological Officers (IMD) are being deployed at critical points, as recommended by high-level safety committees. Control rooms will be manned by qualified UCADA personnel.
DGCA to maintain constant vigil over helicopter operations
Recognizing the importance of helicopter services in reaching the remote and high-altitude temples of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, authorities are leaving no stone unturned to ensure a safe, smooth, and reliable experience for the thousands of pilgrims expected this season.
The DGCA has assured that it will maintain constant vigil over helicopter operations and will act swiftly in case of any violations. The safety of passengers, pilots, and ground staff remains the top priority for all agencies involved in Chardham operations.
