Tragedy in Kedarnath: 7 Dead in Helicopter Crash Amid Zero Visibility
A helicopter ferrying pilgrims tragically crashed, resulting in the death of all seven onboard — five pilgrims including a toddler, the pilot, and a temple committee staff member.
The Bell 407 chopper, operated by Aryan Aviation, had just lifted off from Kedarnath and was en route to Guptkashi when it lost contact and went down. Preliminary investigations suggest that the crash occurred due to controlled flight into terrain (CFIT), worsened by thick fog and zero visibility in the mountainous region.
Lack of Safety Oversight Exposed
This marks the fifth air safety incident on the Char Dham pilgrimage route in recent months. Despite warnings and regulations, aviation firms allegedly continue to neglect weather advisories and safety procedures in pursuit of profits.
Officials stated that the chopper had departed again within one minute of landing, skipping standard fitness and cooldown checks.
Victims and Pilot Identified
Among the deceased was Pilot Rajveer Singh Chauhan, an ex-Army officer with 15+ years of flight experience. He is survived by his wife, a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army, and their four-month-old twins. Other victims included pilgrims from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, and a temple staff member.
Government Action & Industry Crackdown
- Aryan Aviation’s license to operate in the Char Dham sector has been suspended.
- Two other helicopters from TransBharat Aviation were also found flying in unsuitable weather; pilots grounded for six months.
- Real-time monitoring through a command-control room has been mandated.
- Strict caps enforced on flight frequency (not more than 9 per hour).
Massive Turnout, Pressures Mount
With over 66,000 pilgrims using helicopter services this year, pressure on operators remains high. Tickets cost between ₹4,000 to ₹10,000 for short trips, and up to ₹1 lakh for longer routes. Social activists are now demanding a complete safety audit of all aviation operators on the Char Dham route.
