A helicopter operated by Aryan Aviation crashed in the Gaurikund forest during its return flight from Kedarnath Dham to Guptkashi on Sunday, claiming the lives of all seven on board, including the pilot. The aircraft, carrying a 10‑year‑old girl among other passengers, lost its way amid deteriorating weather in the Kedarnath valley, according to officials.
The Uttarakhand government, via civil aviation regulators UCADA and the DGCA, has suspended all helicopter services in the Char Dham region until further notice.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed sorrow in a post on X, saying, “I pray to God for those who lost their lives” and urging that “DGCA rules should not be violated.” He called for pilots to have specific regional experience and directed the formation of both a technical experts’ committee to review helicopter operations and an expanded inquiry into this and previous crashes.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also conveyed her condolences, noting that the crash involved a child and that rescue and search efforts were ongoing.
In the wake of this tragedy—the fifth helicopter crash in Uttarakhand in six weeks—authorities are emphasizing enhanced safety protocols. The technical review aims to draft new operating procedures, while a high-level investigative committee will examine all recent incidents to determine possible negligence and recommend actions against responsible parties. Dhami underlined the vital role of helicopter services for pilgrimage, disaster response, and emergencies, affirming that safety reforms will be prioritized.
