Maharashtra: 2 pilots, 1 engineer killed in Pune helicopter crash; DGCA to probe matter, says police

A tragic helicopter crash occurred in Pune's Bavdhan area on Wednesday, claiming the lives of three individuals. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Vishal Gaikwad of Pimpri-Chinchwad, the helicopter, belonging to Heritage Aviation, crashed shortly after taking off from the Oxford Helipad at around 7:30 AM. The crash resulted in the deaths of two pilots and an engineer on board.

DCP Gaikwad confirmed that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will conduct an investigation into the incident. The helicopter was en route to Juhu in Mumbai when the crash occurred.

BJP Corporator Dilip Vedepatil commented on the situation, stating, "There were two captains and one engineer on board. The chopper met with the accident just 1 km after takeoff, possibly due to foggy conditions. It shouldn’t have flown in such weather, but unfortunately, they went ahead. Three people lost their lives."


Vedepatil also highlighted concerns about the helipad, mentioning that audits were not conducted, and locals would push for its closure to prevent future accidents. He further noted that Maharashtra NCP chief Sunil Tatkare had used the helipad for a flight the previous day.


Pune’s Chief Fire Officer, Devendra Prabhakar Potphode, provided further details, stating that the fire department responded quickly after receiving information about the crash. Upon arrival, fire teams discovered the helicopter in flames, with debris scattered across the area. Three casualties were recovered and handed over to the police.

The helicopter had flown in from Juhu, Mumbai, and had two pilots and one engineer aboard when it crashed. Further details about the crash are expected following the DGCA investigation.

Inputs from ANI