Chartered chopper services launched in West Bengal

KOLKATA: The West Bengal government today introduced chartered helicopter services from the Behala flying club in Kolkata to six destinations in the state.

Announcing this, the state transport minister Madan Mitra said anyone can now hire the two-engine Pawan Hans chopper for travel to Haldia, Gangasagar, Malda, Bolpur, Balurgaht and Durgapur.

"It would be particularly useful for doctors and patients who need to travel during a medical emergency. Others like lawyers, businessmen, artists etc can also avail this service," Mitra told reporters.

The hiring charge has been fixed at Rs 2 lakh per hour excluding service tax. The Behala flying club has also been revamped by adding a VIP lounge and a restaurant. The chopper would be operated by the state transport department.