A collective of 11 charter helicopter operators serving the sacred Char Dham pilgrimage routes in India has announced plans to suspend services starting November 2, 2026. This decision comes in direct opposition to a new mandate from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) requiring all charter helicopters to operate with two pilots.
The DGCA's new safety regulation was swiftly implemented following a tragic helicopter crash near Badrinath on October 30, which resulted in the deaths of six people, including the pilot. However, operators contend that the twin-pilot requirement, introduced without prior consultation, renders their services financially unviable.
Operators Cite Soaring Costs and Unsustainable Practices
In a letter addressed to the DGCA and the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) on October 31, the operators expressed profound concerns regarding the commercial and operational implications of the new rule. They highlighted that deploying an additional pilot for every sortie would significantly escalate operational costs, including crew salaries, accommodation, and logistical expenses.
Given the current commercial structure, existing charter rates, and already thin operational margins, the operators stated that these additional costs cannot be absorbed internally. Furthermore, they deemed it commercially infeasible to pass the entire burden of these increased expenses onto customers, many of whom are pilgrims.
Call for Review and Consultative Solution
The operators collectively conveyed their inability to accept the mandatory twin-pilot requirement in its current form. They formally proposed to suspend all Char Dham charter operations until the matter is reviewed and a mutually workable solution can be achieved through consultation with all stakeholders.
They emphasized their consistent compliance with DGCA regulations and significant investments in maintaining safe and efficient operations across the challenging Himalayan terrain. The operators urged the DGCA and UCADA to reconsider the mandate, engage urgently with stakeholders, and explore an alternative operational framework that simultaneously addresses safety concerns and ensures the commercial viability and sustainability of helicopter services in the region.