Uttarkashi chopper hit cable during emergency landing, crashed: Preliminary probe

The Union Civil Aviation Ministry's probing agency, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), stated in its preliminary report on Saturday that the May 8 chopper crash in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi — which killed six people, including the pilot — was caused by the main rotor blade striking an overhead fibre cable while attempting an emergency landing.

The AAIB is currently investigating the crash of the BELL 407 helicopter, which was en route from Kharsali to the Jhala helipad. The Aviation Ministry's team has completed an initial probe at the crash site, gathering perishable evidence and components for further examination at their headquarters. Records from the operator have been obtained and are under scrutiny.

Interviews with first responders, eyewitnesses, and officials from various aviation bodies have provided additional data for the investigation and helped AAIB piece together clues leading to the crash.

During its attempted landing on NH 34 near Gangnani in Uttarkashi, the chopper struck an overhead cable, resulting in a crash that killed the pilot and five passengers.

Despite extensive damage to the helicopter, belonging to AeroTrans Services Private Limited, there was no fire reported at the scene. The crash site has since been secured for further examination of the wreckage. The AAIB has collected crucial mechanical and electrical components for detailed analysis.

After taking off from Sahastradhara helipad in Dehradun, the chopper was heading to Kharsali helipad in Yamunotri. Four passengers on board were from Mumbai, while two others were from Andhra Pradesh.

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