Human error mainly responsible for chopper crashes: Manohar Parrikar

NEW DELHI: Human error is responsible for the majority of 73 helicopter accidents that have taken place in the last 24 years, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said in Rajya Sabha today.

Replying to a supplementary during Question Hour, he said during the 1986-1991 period 21 accidents occured. It came down to six during the 1991-96 period, but rose to 13 between the 1996-2001 period.

The number fell to six during the 2001-2006 period, but rose again in 2006-2011 period to 11. During the last four years, seven helicopter accidents have taken place, he said.

"If you see, 63 per cent of these accidents have taken place due to human error," Parrikar said and added that "standard Operating Procedures are constantly reviewed and stringent training norms followed to minimise accidents."

Parrikar also said that during the last six months, five army personnel have lost their lives in two helicopter accidents, with the first occuring in October last year and the other last month.

"All crashes are investigated by a Court of Inquiry to find out the cause of accidents and to recommend remedial measures to prevent accidents. Remedial measures suggested by the Court of Inquiry are implemented at various levels," he said.