(a) whether work is being carried out under the Helicopter policy across the country and if so, the details thereof;
(b) whether heli-hubs are being set up in Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati and Bengaluru in this regard;
(c) if so, the details thereof;
(d) whether the Government also proposes to include Bihar under the said scheme;
(e) whether Koshi region, especially Supaul is likely to be included under the said scheme; and
(f) if so, the details thereof?
Minister of State in the Ministry of CIVIL AVIATION (GEN. (DR) V. K. SINGH (RETD))
(a) to (c): Ministry of Civil Aviation has released a policy for promotion of helicopter operations across the country. The policy covers various aspects like concessional ground handling charges, parking deposit, landing charges, service charges, credit facility with ATC and training for Air Traffic Control with a view to making helicopter operations viable. The helicopter policy encourages the airport operators/State Governments/UTs to develop heliports. Rohini heliport in Delhi has been developed as a Heli-hub by Pawan Hans Limited. Similarly, Airports Authority of India has earmarked Juhu airport as a Heli-hub. Airport operators of Guwahati Airport and Bengaluru Airport have been encouraged to develop Heli-hubs in their respective airports. ;
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(d) to (f): As per the policy, State Governments/UTs are required to set up an Institutional mechanism to facilitate helicopter operations by obtaining permissions, approvals, clearances, etc. Ministry of Civil Aviation has also requested the State Governments and UTs to consider setting up helipads in each district for promoting helicopter operations. The Government through this policy, aims to stimulate air traffic and enhance air connectivity through helicopters by facilitating helicopter operations across the country including Bihar.