A major accident was averted in Andaman and Nicobar Islands on Tuesday morning. A helicopter of Pawan Hans company fell into the sea due to a technical fault. It is a matter of relief that all the 7 people on board have been rescued safely. The incident occurred near Mayabunder, where the helicopter had to make an emergency landing in water a short distance from the runway. The administration has confirmed that everyone is safe.
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When and how did this accident happen?
This incident happened on 24 February 2026 at around 9:30 am. According to the information, the helicopter was about to reach the runway when it encountered some technical problem about 300 meters before. Officials have described it as ‘short landing’. The pilot showed wisdom and landed the helicopter in the sea. There were 5 passengers and 2 pilots on board this helicopter.
In the initial investigation, technical snag is being considered as the main reason for this accident. The Civil Aviation Department has ordered a thorough investigation into the matter so that the real reason can be revealed.
Passenger safety and security operations
Immediately after the accident, the Marine Police carried out the rescue operation swiftly. All passengers and both pilots, Captain Anil Janu and Captain TPS Gulia, were safely evacuated from the water. The passengers included Rajita Devi, Shishu Kamal Chandra Das, Shipra Saha and Nambi Amma.
All were taken to Dr. RP Hospital in Mayabunder for observation and treatment. The good news is that no one was seriously injured. The Andaman administration has appreciated the promptness of the police and rescue teams.
Rental and helicopter upgrade information
Pawan Hans helicopter service in Andaman is like a lifeline for the people. Here, to go to Mayabunder from Port Blair, which is now called Sri Vijaya Puram, local residents have to pay about Rs 3,375 fare. At the same time, this fare for tourists can range from Rs 10,000 to Rs 11,000.
At present the ‘Dophin N3’ helicopters being used here are running on about 20 years old technology. Keeping safety in mind, the administration has now approved a plan to replace the entire fleet with modern Sikorsky helicopters, which will make travel safer in the future.
