Shortage of helicopters for political campaign

Hyderabad, March 11 : The political parties across the country might face problem in sending their star campaigners to different cities due to shortage of helicopters.

According to Business Aircraft Operators’ Association (BAOA) President Rohit Kapoor, the parties might feel the shortage of helicopters during the ensuing general elections. This is primarily due to de-registration of helicopters. As against 48 new registrations done in 2010, only 20 helicopters were de-registered. But in 2013, as many 19 helicopters were de-registered the new registrations were only 13.

Rohit Kapoor also informed that some political parties were yet to clear the dues to aviation companies for the helicopters that were hired in 2009 elections. Therefore, for the ensuing elections, the parties have been asked to pay the entire amount in advance.

When asked about usage of helicopters for medical emergencies, he said there was a huge potential for air-ambulance services. However, there is no clarity from the government on mandatory payment to aviation companies. Further, he said several applications seeking approval for helipads have been pending with the State Government for the last five years.   INN