Forces halt ‘Dhruv’ helicopter operations after emergency landing incident

The abandoned Dhruv helicopter had deployed its emergency flotation equipment.

New Delhi:

Following the crash off the coast of Mumbai two days ago, the Defense Force halted operations of ALH Dhruv helicopters until investigators find the reason for the incident and checks precautions are taken.

ALH helicopters are operated by all three defense forces including the Army, Navy and Air Force, as well as the Indian Coast Guard.

“Operations have been halted until investigators find out the reason for the incident off the coast of Mumbai and precautionary checks are carried out,” defense force officials told ANI.

ALH Dhruv helicopters are used in multiple roles by the Indian Defense Forces, including transporting men and equipment.

“HAL has already taken action and will work closely with customers to ensure the helicopter fleet is fully operational,” HAL officials told ANI.

The ALH Dhruv has become one of the important parts of the helicopter missions undertaken by the three forces involved in the various terrains where they are deployed.

Defense officials said they hoped to resume operations at ALH Dhruv very soon.

During the incident two days ago, an Indian Navy ALH Dhruv on a routine flying mission off Mumbai suffered a sudden loss of power and a rapid loss of height.

The Navy said the pilot made a controlled water landing and all three crew exited the helicopter safely and were picked up in a quick rescue operation.

The abandoned helicopter had deployed its emergency flotation device and efforts are underway to retrieve it.

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