Helicopter Crash Near Kedarnath: Case Filed Against Aviation Firm

Dehradun, Jun 16 (PTI): A case has been filed against Aryan Aviation Private Ltd, the company operating the helicopter involved in a tragic crash near Kedarnath, resulting in the death of all seven passengers onboard, including a two-year-old child and the pilot. The crash occurred due to adverse weather conditions in the Gauri Mai Khark forest area between Gaurikund and Triyuginarayan. The helicopter, a Bell 407, was owned by Aryan Aviation Private Limited. Authorities have registered a case against Kaushik Pathak, the company's accountable manager, and Vikas Tomar, the manager, at Sonprayag police station under BNS and section 10 of the Aircraft Act 1934. This action follows a complaint filed by Revenue Police Sub Inspector Rajiv Nakholia from Phata, a town close to the renowned Himalayan temple. According to the complaint, Aryan Aviation was allotted an operational time slot from 6 am to 7 am on June 15, but the crash happened prematurely at 5:30 am. Additionally, despite prevailing cloudy and foggy conditions, the weather was not checked prior to the helicopter's takeoff. The complaint further indicates that Aryan Aviation violated the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority. Despite being aware of the potential risks to life and property, the company and its officials allegedly ignored safety protocols, exhibiting gross negligence, which led to the fatal crash.