The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced the immediate suspension of Aryan Aviation’s operations for the Char Dham Yatra following a fatal helicopter crash near Guptkashi, Uttarakhand, on June 15, 2025. The crash resulted in the deaths of all seven individuals on board, including the pilot. In response to the incident, the ministry also revoked the licenses of two helicopter pilots involved, suspending them for six months.
The crash occurred shortly after the helicopter took off from the Kedarnath shrine, en route to Guptkashi. Initial reports suggest that poor weather conditions, including dense fog and low visibility, may have contributed to the accident.
This tragic incident has raised significant concerns regarding aviation safety protocols during the Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) are conducting investigations to determine the cause of the crash and to review safety measures for helicopter operations in the region.
Rescue operations were promptly initiated by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local police. The crash site, located in a forested area near Gaurikund, posed significant challenges for recovery teams due to its remote and rugged terrain.
In the aftermath of the crash, the Uttarakhand government suspended all helicopter services in the Char Dham region. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have launched investigations to determine the exact cause of the crash and to review safety protocols for helicopter operations in the region.
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