Published On - Sep 23, 2025
Updated On - Sep 23, 2025
5 min
DGCA Resumes Chardham Yatra Helicopter Services: With Enhanced Safety Protocols
Good news for pilgrims! After months of waiting, Chardham helicopter services are back in action from mid-September 2025 with the DGCA’s official approval. The pause earlier this year due to safety concerns had left thousands anxious, but now devotees can once again fly to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath with added peace of mind.
Good news for pilgrims! After months of waiting, Chardham helicopter services are back in action from mid-September 2025 with the DGCA’s official approval. The pause earlier this year due to safety concerns had left thousands anxious, but now devotees can once again fly to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath with added peace of mind. What’s different this time? Well-trained pilots, stricter maintenance, real-time weather checks, and stronger safety protocols — all designed to give you a secure and smooth aerial Yatra. With limited time before the temples close for winter, demand is expected to soar, so booking early is a smart move. Whether you’re looking for charter flights from Dehradun or quick shuttle services to Kedarnath, the skies to Chardham are open again — safer, smoother, and ready to take you closer to divinity.
After early closing of Helicopter services this year; Chardham Helicopter services resumes after the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has greenlit of helicopter services for the Chardham Yatra, effective from September 15-16, 2025. This decision comes after a thorough review process, prioritizing passenger safety following incidents in May-June 2025. Travelers planning a pilgrimage to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath can now opt for aerial access with stricter operational standards in place.
This update comes as a huge relief for thousands of devotees and travelers who rely on helicopters for quick access to the high-altitude shrines. With enhanced safety checks, stricter rules for operators, and new real-time monitoring systems, the 2025 Yatra season promises a more secure and reliable flying experience.
When will services start again?
The DGCA approval came through in mid-September 2025, paving the way for helicopter services to resume operations immediately. This timing is crucial, as it allows pilgrims to plan their Yatra smoothly during the remaining peak season months before the Himalayan temples close for winter.
Services will continue until the shrines shut down around October–November, depending on weather conditions. Those planning their trip are encouraged to book early, as demand is expected to rise sharply after the resumption announcement.
What’s New
Following weeks of inspections and corrective measures, the DGCA has now granted clearance for services to restart. Pilgrims and travelers can once again book helicopter rides for the Char Dham temples. The resumption comes with a new framework designed to prioritize passenger safety while maintaining efficient connectivity to Uttarakhand’s remote shrines.
Background on the Suspension and Review
Helicopter operations were paused earlier this year due to several accidents in the Chardham region during May and June 2025. In response, the DGCA initiated special investigations and audits, scrutinizing helipads, aircraft, and operators. High-powered committees formed post-incidents offered key recommendations, including the deployment of air traffic controllers, meteorologists, and trained personnel from the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA).
Coordination efforts involved multiple review meetings in Dehradun and Delhi, led by Civil Aviation Minister and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. These sessions ensured alignment among the DGCA, Airports Authority of India (AAI), state government, and UCADA.
Key Safety Enhancements
To mitigate risks in high-altitude and variable weather conditions, the following measures have been mandated:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Pilot Training | Specialized sessions for high-altitude flights and adverse weather; mandatory route checks and refresher courses |
| Helicopter Maintenance | Strict adherence to schedules with additional technical inspections. |
| Operational Protocols | Weight limits enforced; modern navigation and communication systems required. |
| Weather Monitoring | Real-time updates via dedicated systems and on-site meteorologists. |
| Passenger Protocols | Pre-boarding briefings, compulsory seat belts, and extra ground staff at helipads. |
| Oversight | DGCA teams stationed at key sites for continuous monitoring and unannounced audits. |
Key Safety Enhancement
These steps underscore a zero-tolerance policy for safety lapses, with explicit directives to operators.
Service Details and Operators
Helicopter services are divided into two categories:
Charter Services: Operating from Dehradun's Sahastradhara helipad to Chardham Yatra by Helicopter, Do Dham Helicopter same day, KKedarnath Badrinath Yatra by Helicopter etc. Seven operators or consortia will handle these routes.
Shuttle Services: From Guptakashi, Phata, and Sitapur to Kedarnath, managed by six dedicated operators. Shuttle services are especially popular with pilgrims who want a quicker, more accessible way to reach Kedarnath without undertaking the long trek.
This setup aims to provide efficient access to remote pilgrimage sites, balancing convenience with reliability.
What Travellers Should Know / Advice
If you’re planning to take the Chardham Yatra by helicopter in 2025, here are some important things to keep in mind:
Weather Check: Always check the forecast before booking or flying. Helicopter services are subject to weather conditions and delays are common in the mountains.
Book Approved Operators: Ensure your booking is with a DGCA-approved service provider to avoid any safety risks.
Arrive Early: Enhanced security and safety checks will take extra time, so it’s best to be at the helipad well in advance.
Follow Instructions: Pay attention to staff briefings, wear seatbelts, and follow all safety guidelines strictly.
Plan Ahead: Given the popularity of helicopter rides, tickets may sell out quickly, especially after the resumption of news. Advance booking is highly recommended
Summary
Helicopter services for the Chardham Yatra 2025 are back in operation with DGCA’s green signal. The resumption follows months of audits and inspections after earlier safety concerns. With better-trained pilots, stricter maintenance rules, real-time weather systems, and stronger passenger safety protocols, this year’s Yatra promises to be both safer and smoother.
For devotees planning their journey to Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, helicopters once again offer the fastest and most comfortable way to experience the holy pilgrimage — now with renewed safety assurance.