Bengal seeks compliance report on safety norms from copter, jet operators
Times of India | 29 January 2026
State govt on Wednesday sought updated compliance reports from the operators of the helicopter and the executive jet used by it for VVIP movements. These reports must confirm adherence to DGCA-mandated safety protocols governing non-scheduled and charter operations, including maintenance schedules, crew duty time limitations, pilot training and currency, operational SOPs, and aircraft airworthiness certifications.
Following Wednesday's plane crash that led to the death of Maharashtra deputy CM Ajit Pawar , state govt directed strict adherence to aviation safety norms laid down by DGCA.
The state operates one helicopter and a mid-sized executive jet on wet lease for VVIP movement. Both are operated by private operators, with crew, maintenance, and operational responsibility resting with the lessors under DGCA regulations.
"The state does not operate these aircraft directly. However, given the sensitivity of VVIP travel, we asked operators to reaffirm full compliance with DGCA safety norms," a senior transport department official said.