Did lightning strike the chopper?

HYDERABAD: Though the exact sequence of events leading to the crash of the helicopter is not yet clear, aviation sources say it was a lightning strike that led to it. Although the lightning did not down the helicopter, it led to onboard systems, including the altimeter going awry.

A helicopter pilot flies by visual references unlike an airplane pilot who has more avionic aids. And in the pouring rain, the pilot was virtually flying blind unaware of the height too. From the lightning strike, it probably took only a few minutes for the low flying helicopter to stray 18 km from its flight path and hit a cliff in the Nallamala forest about 14 metres below its peak. The helicopter then exploded and broke down into many pieces.

������ The weather forcast had warned of heavy rainfall and formation of CB clouds (that leads to lightning). The weather report had been sought and obtained by the chief minister���s office. The pilots should have refused to take off. But the presence of the VVIP must have made them tongue tied,������ a source said.