Dehradun, June 15: The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) will lead the probe into the tragic helicopter crash that occurred early Sunday morning near Gaurikund in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced.
The Bell 407 helicopter, registered as VT-BKA and operated by Aryan Aviation, was en route from Shri Kedarnath Dham to Guptkashi when it lost contact shortly after takeoff. The aircraft, carrying five passengers, one infant, and the pilot, departed at 5:19 am and crashed near Gaurikund, according to the DGCA.
Initial reports suggest the crash was likely caused by poor visibility and severe weather in the region.
In response, DGCA has initiated enhanced surveillance and operational reviews across the Char Dham helicopter services. The frequency of flights will also be reduced as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety.
Chief Executive Officer of Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA), Sonika, confirmed that all helicopter shuttle services in the Kedarnath region have been suspended due to ongoing rescue operations and adverse weather conditions.
“Almost all helicopters have been diverted to assist in the rescue efforts. The District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police are also on their way to the crash site,” Sonika stated.
She added that information about the missing helicopter was received around 5:30 am, and shortly afterward, it was confirmed that the aircraft had crashed in a forested area near Gaurikund. Rescue teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were immediately deployed to the site.
All seven occupants, including the pilot, are feared dead, according to preliminary statements from the SDRF.
The investigation by AAIB will look into weather data, flight operations, and technical aspects to determine the exact cause of the accident.