Investigation Launched into Kedarnath Helicopter Crash as Operations Halted
Kedarnath Helicopter Crash Overview
Kedarnath Helicopter Crash: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced on Sunday that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) will conduct an inquiry into the recent helicopter crash in Kedarnath. In response to this incident, the DGCA has proactively decreased the frequency of helicopter flights to the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and is enhancing surveillance to assess operations for potential further measures. Tragically, a helicopter crashed in Gaurikund on Sunday morning, resulting in the loss of all six individuals on board, which included five passengers and one crew member, as confirmed by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).
The DGCA reported, “The Aryan Aviation Bell 407 helicopter, registered as VT-BKA, was operating a flight from Shri Kedarnath ji to Aryan Helipad in Guptkanshi when the accident occurred. The helicopter took off at 05:19 hours and crashed near Gaurikund. As a precaution, the DGCA has reduced helicopter operations to Char Dham and is conducting enhanced monitoring while reviewing the situation for any necessary actions. The AAIB will investigate the incident.”
Uttarakhand helicopter crash | Today, Aryan Aviation Bell 407 helicopter VT-BKA operating flight on sector Shri Kedarnath ji- Aryan Helipad, Guptkanshi, was involved in an accident. There were five passengers, one infant and one crew member on board. The helicopter took off at… pic.twitter.com/89bUh1alEe
— Media Channel (@MediaChannel) June 15, 2025
Recent updates indicate that Vikram Rawat, a 47-year-old employee of the Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC), was among those who perished in the crash. Harish Gaur, a spokesperson for the committee, confirmed this heartbreaking news and expressed condolences.
A 47-year-old BKTC employee, Vikram Rawat died in the Uttarakhand helicopter crash. The employees gathered at all the offices of the temple committee and expressed condolences: Shri Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee spokesperson, Harish Gaur
— Media Channel (@MediaChannel) June 15, 2025
(Pic 1- deceased Vikram Rawat) pic.twitter.com/j25AH0LfcL
In light of the current weather conditions, Sonika, the CEO of the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA), announced that all shuttle services have been suspended.
“Due to ongoing rescue operations and the prevailing weather conditions in the valley, we have halted our shuttle services. Almost all helicopters are currently engaged in rescue efforts. The District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police will also be arriving at the site shortly,” Sonika stated.