Copter flies over Parliament, pilot ‘grounded’

New Delhi: A helicopter violated the no-fly zone code and flew over the high-security Parliament area for over 10 seconds on Wednesday afternoon, sending Parliament security and Civil Aviation officials into a tizzy.
According to airport and Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) officials, the helicopter pilot reportedly had to land at Safdarjung Airport and instead strayed over the Parliament and its annexe. The reason for this lapse, whether a miscommunication between the Air Traffic Controller (ATC) and pilot or the pilot voluntarily entering the no-fly zone, is not yet known. The DGCA has ordered an inquiry into the incident. Officials said a reprimand is likely to be issued to the pilot.
According to officials, a Pawan Hans helicopter entered the no-fly zone around 2.15 pm. Officials said the helicopter was on a scheduled flight from Dehradun to Delhi. The DGCA was informed about the lapse, as was the ATC.
Air space over Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhavan, North and South Block, PM’s residence, the Taj Mahal, Maurya Sheraton and Taj Palace hotels is a restricted area.
22/10/08 Delhi Newsline

To Read the News in full at Source, Click the Headline

Categories: Indian Aviation- In General Oct 2008, Safety Oct 2008