DGCA Audit Exposes Serious Safety Lapses In Himalayan Helicopter Operations
Mumbai: A series of high-altitude safety audits conducted by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has uncovered alarming operational and regulatory lapses among key helicopter operators in the treacherous Himalayan region. The findings revealed systemic gaps ranging from unmonitored pilot fatigue to uncoordinated slot timings. Six Helicopter Accidents In Uttarakhand Prompt…
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) recently conducted high-altitude safety audits in the Himalayan region, uncovering severe operational and regulatory lapses among helicopter operators. Six accidents occurred in Uttarakhand between 2023 and 2025, highlighting a pattern of non-compliance. In response, the DGCA audited eight major operators, including Transbharat Aviation and Kestrel Aviation.
Key failures included inadequate monitoring of pilot fatigue, improper execution of 2023 operations circulars, and uncoordinated slot timings. Notably, essential documents and safety plans were often missing. The regulator has now tightened operational restrictions, including weight limits, flight caps, and mandatory use of GPS routes. Emergency response plans and real-time tracking systems have also been strengthened.
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