The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on January 01, 2026, issued circular regarding the Helicopter Cargo Operations.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued operational guidelines to regulate and ensure the safe conduct of helicopter cargo operations in India. These operations, often carried out in challenging environments such as remote, hilly, or offshore areas, require strict adherence to safety, performance, and operational standards.
The circular outlines key requirements for operators, including proper load calculation, securing of cargo, and ensuring that the helicopter operates within prescribed weight and balance limits. Special emphasis is placed on external load operations (sling loads), requiring trained crew, appropriate equipment, and compliance with approved procedures to prevent risks during lifting, carriage, and release of cargo.
Safety is a central focus, with operators required to assess weather conditions, terrain, and operational risks before undertaking flights. Crew training, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and coordination with ground personnel are mandatory to ensure safe handling of cargo. The guidelines also stress the importance of communication, emergency preparedness, and risk mitigation during operations, especially in confined or hazardous areas. Similar DGCA frameworks highlight the need for strict SOP compliance and safety oversight in helicopter operations due to their inherently higher risk environment.
Overall, the document aims to standardize helicopter cargo operations, enhance safety oversight, and ensure efficient and reliable transport of goods, particularly in difficult-to-access regions.
[File No.: DGCA-22014/12/2025-FSD]
