Pawan Hans Helicopter Crash Lands Near Mayabunder; All 7 On Board Rescued

A Pawan Hans helicopter made an emergency landing in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on Tuesday after experiencing a technical snag mid-flight. All seven people onboard — including two crew members and five passengers — were rescued safely, and no injuries were reported.

According to officials, the helicopter took off from Port Blair at approximately 9:30 am and encountered a technical issue shortly before reaching Mayabunder. The aircraft executed what authorities described as a “short landing incident,” allowing it to touch down safely despite the malfunction.

Emergency response teams quickly reached the location and evacuated all occupants. Authorities confirmed that everyone onboard was safe and that prompt response measures helped prevent any casualties.

Technical snag led to precautionary landing

Initial reports indicate that the pilot detected a snag during flight and initiated a controlled emergency landing as a precautionary measure. Such procedures are designed to minimise risk and ensure passenger safety in the event of mechanical issues.

Officials have launched a technical assessment to determine the exact cause of the malfunction. Aviation safety protocols require a detailed inspection before the aircraft is cleared for further operations.

Swift rescue operation ensured passenger safety

Local rescue teams and authorities coordinated the evacuation effort. The passengers and crew were safely transported from the site, and medical evaluations confirmed that no injuries were sustained.

The swift response highlights the preparedness of emergency services in the island region, where aviation is a critical mode of transportation due to geographic challenges.

Aviation safety under spotlight after recent crash

The incident occurred just a day after a fatal air ambulance crash in Jharkhand, where a Beechcraft C90 aircraft operating a medical evacuation flight crashed in Chatra district, resulting in the loss of all seven people onboard.

While the two incidents are unrelated, the back-to-back aviation events have drawn attention to safety protocols and aircraft maintenance standards.

Importance of helicopter services in island regions

Helicopter services play a vital role in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, providing connectivity between remote areas, transporting medical patients, and supporting administrative and emergency operations.

Authorities have assured that safety checks and inspections will be carried out thoroughly to maintain operational reliability.

The safe rescue of all passengers in Tuesday’s incident underscores the effectiveness of emergency protocols and pilot response in preventing a potentially serious accident.