New DGCA norms to ensure better use of choppers in rescue missions

Four helicopter accidents killing 20 people during rescue operations in Uttarakhand could have been avoided if the pilots had proper hill training and the choppers had not been used beyond their capacity, the country's aviation regulator has said, as it came up with exhaustive guidelines for utilisation of helicopters in disaster management.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has suggested that states' aviation departments could be part of disaster management authorities, and regular maintenance be conducted of state government airports and helipads.

The latest guidelines issued were the outcome of an analysis of the chopper operations during the disaster in Uttarakhand in June, in which around 85 choppers of civil and military registration participated and were the only lifelines in the higher reaches of the Himalayas.

The specific instructions came as the choppers have been operating from disaster sites and temporary or unprepared helipads in hostile environments.

Analysing the helicopter operations during the June floods in the hill-state, the DGCA said choppers, with their ability to manoeuvre in restricted spaces, saved almost 50,000 lives in Uttarakhand. The choppers were of immense help to the local administration and ground rescue parties. However, it said, four helicopters—three civil and one from the IAF—and 20 lives were lost due to “avoidable” accidents.

“Proper selection of helipads, adhering to security instructions, not flying in bad weather, not stretching the capabilities of the helicopters and proper hill training of the pilots would have ensured accident-free operation,” it said.

The DGCA said the state governments are realising the potential of helicopters and are likely to use more choppers in future for evacuation, and carrying rations, drinking water and medical aid.

The choppers can also be used for carrying heavy loads like bulldozers and helping in aerial reconnaissance by decision-makers.