Tragic Helicopter Crash Claims Lives of Seven Pilgrims

• A helicopter carrying Hindu pilgrims crashed in Uttarakhand, India, killing all seven people on board just minutes after takeoff
• Officials have suspended helicopter services in the region, citing bad weather and recent aviation incidents along the pilgrimage route
• The state's chief minister has ordered an inquiry into the crash, promising stricter regulations for pilots and operators flying in the Himalayan region

A tragic helicopter crash in northern India has claimed the lives of seven people.

The incident occurred early on Sunday in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, minutes after the aircraft took off on a short pilgrimage flight, Reuters reported.

Officials reported that the Bell 407 helicopter, operated by Aryan Aviation, was transporting pilgrims from Kedarnath temple town to Guptkashi when it crashed in Rudraprayag district.

The journey, which usually lasts around ten minutes, ended in disaster.

Following the crash, Uttarakhand's director-general of information, Bansidhar Tripathi, announced that all helicopter services to Kedarnath Valley would be suspended until Monday due to poor weather conditions.

He also noted that this was the second helicopter crash and third emergency landing on the same route in just six weeks.

Chief Minister orders inquiry into helicopter crash

Uttarakhand’s chief minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, responded to the tragedy with a statement on X, saying, "Very sad news has been received about a helicopter crash in Rudraprayag district."

He confirmed that the State Disaster Response Force and other rescue teams were actively involved in relief efforts. Dhami also announced an investigation into the crash, including scrutiny of helicopter pilots and operators, stating that "only those pilots who have long experience of flying helicopters in high Himalayan regions will be allowed."

Impact on Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage

The Char Dham Yatra, which includes Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, attracts hundreds of thousands of Hindu pilgrims annually.

In response to recent aviation incidents, India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation has reduced helicopter operations in the region and is increasing surveillance.

About plane crash in 2025

In 2025, multiple aviation disasters have occurred worldwide, raising concerns about flight safety. Early in the year, a passenger aircraft in South Sudan crashed while transporting oil workers, resulting in 20 fatalities.

In March, a regional jet in Honduras plunged into the sea, claiming 13 lives. Another major incident involved a mid-air collision between a commercial jet and a military helicopter over the Potomac River, killing 67 people.

Investigations into these crashes have prompted authorities to reassess aviation protocols and enhance safety measures. The industry continues to focus on preventing further tragedies through stricter regulations and improved monitoring.

Man who survived plane crash speaks

Legit.ng earlier reported that a British man emerged as the sole survivor of the London-bound Air India flight carrying 242 people that crashed shortly after takeoff in Ahmedabad, north-west India.

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was engulfed in flames after plummeting into a medical college on Thursday afternoon, June 12, 2025, killing 241 passengers.

Kumar Ramesh, seated in 11A, recounted the harrowing experience. The 40-year-old British national, who has lived in the UK for 20 years, was returning after visiting family in India. His younger brother, Nayan Kumar Ramesh, 27, expressed disbelief at the news.

Source: Legit.ng