UTTARAKHAND: The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has launched an investigation into the helicopter crash near Joshimath in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, which claimed six lives, including those of five passengers from Karnataka.
Investigators have begun examining the helicopter’s black box and flight data to establish the sequence of events leading to the crash. The probe will also focus on the aircraft’s maintenance records, technical condition and operational history.
Adverse weather conditions and poor visibility are among the suspected factors being examined. Investigators are also looking into the possibility of a technical malfunction and whether the operator complied with safety regulations prescribed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
A preliminary investigation report is expected to be submitted within a month, according to reports.
Bodies recovered, DNA samples collected
Meanwhile, rescue teams have recovered the bodies of all six victims. Arrangements have been made to conduct postmortem examinations in Joshimath.
DNA samples are being collected from family members to establish the identities of the deceased. Following directions from the Karnataka chief minister to facilitate the transportation of the five Karnataka passengers’ bodies, arrangements are being made to hand them over to their families after the postmortem and identification procedures are completed.
Chopper crashed while returning from Badrinath
The helicopter, operated by TransBharat Aviation, crashed on Friday while returning from Badrinath Dham. The accident occurred in a mountainous region near the villages of Chai and Thayang, close to Joshimath.
Initial suspicion has centred on adverse weather and poor visibility in the mountainous terrain. However, officials have not yet established the exact cause of the crash.
The investigation is expected to examine all possible factors, including weather conditions, aircraft maintenance, technical failures and compliance with aviation safety norms. The findings of the probe will be crucial in determining what led to the fatal accident.
