Lack of ATC, low fares, and VHF dependence hamper Char Dham air safety
Following a series of helicopter crashes during the Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand will establish its own Air Traffic Control system. Currently dependent on Bareilly ATC, the state aims to enhance flight safety with real-time tracking and better coordination in high-altitude zones like Kedarnath.
Dehradun:
The move comes after the latest crash on June 15, in which seven people, including a child and the pilot, lost their lives when an Aryan Aviation helicopter went down near Gaurikund amid poor visibility.
 In the wake of a series of tragic helicopter crashes during the Char Dham Yatra, the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) has announced plans to establish its own Air Traffic Control (ATC) system in the Kedarnath Valley.
Five helicopter incidents have occurred in the Kedarnath Valley, resulting in 13 fatalities
The urgency of this upgrade is underscored by the alarming frequency of accidents. Within just 39 days of the 2025 Char Dham Yatra, five helicopter incidents have occurred in the Kedarnath Valley, resulting in 13 fatalities. Investigations into the June 15 crash revealed that the helicopter took off before sunrise, violating standard safety protocols. Helicopters are only permitted to fly between sunrise and sunset, yet the crash was reported at 5:30 AM, suggesting a premature takeoff.
Uttarakhand relies on the Bareilly ATC in Uttar Pradesh
Currently, Uttarakhand relies on the Bareilly ATC in Uttar Pradesh for managing air traffic in its skies. This dependency has long been criticized, especially given the challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and high volume of helicopter traffic during the pilgrimage season. UCADA CEO IAS Sonika confirmed that the state is now preparing to install its own sonar-based ATC system, which will allow local authorities to monitor and manage helicopter operations in real time.
No more than four helicopters may operate in the Kedarnath Valley: DGCA
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has since suspended Aryan Aviation’s operations and grounded two other pilots from a different company for flying in unsuitable weather. The DGCA has also reiterated its guidelines: no more than four helicopters may operate in the Kedarnath Valley at any given time, with a maximum of six airborne if proper spacing is maintained.
Is low fare also a reason?
UCADA’s current terms for private operators—such as Rs 5,000 per landing royalty, up to 50 landings per day, and mandatory free flying hours—have created a high-pressure environment where profit often outweighs safety. The lack of accountability clauses, combined with the absence of robust oversight, has only worsened the situation.
Uttarakhand aims to regain control over its airspace, improve pilot coordination
With the proposed ATC system, Uttarakhand aims to regain control over its airspace, improve pilot coordination, and ensure timely weather updates. The government hopes this will not only prevent future tragedies but also restore public confidence in helicopter travel during the sacred pilgrimage.
Communication relies on VHF radio, which is often blocked by the mountainous terrain
Despite these regulations, the absence of a dedicated ATC system and real-time weather monitoring has left pilots navigating the valley with limited support. Communication relies on VHF radio, which is often blocked by the mountainous terrain. Moreover, the Kedarnath helipad lacks navigation aids and a meteorological station, making it one of the most hazardous air corridors in the country.
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