The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), under the Union Civil Aviation Ministry, has said in its preliminary report that the May 8 helicopter crash in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand occurred when the main rotor blade struck an overhead fibre cable during an attempted emergency landing.
The chopper crash claimed six lives, including that of the pilot.
The AAIB is investigating the crash involving a BELL 407 helicopter that was flying from Kharsali to the Jhala helipad.
The ministry’s team has completed its initial on-site investigation, collecting perishable evidence and key components for further analysis at its headquarters. Flight operator records have also been seized and are currently being examined.
While attempting to land on NH 34 near Gangnani in Uttarkashi, the helicopter struck an overhead cable and crashed, killing the pilot and five passengers. The aircraft eventually plunged into a gorge approximately 250 feet deep.
Despite the extensive damage to the helicopter, which belonged to AeroTrans Services Private Limited, no fire was reported at the scene. The crash site has been secured for further investigation, and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has collected vital mechanical and electrical components for detailed analysis.
The helicopter had taken off from the Sahastradhara helipad in Dehradun and was headed to the Kharsali helipad near Yamunotri. Among the passengers, four were from Mumbai and two were from Andhra Pradesh.
