Thiruvananthapuram: Govt’s helicopter arrangement with aviation company Chipsan Aviation has come to an end, with the contract expiring on Saturday. Govt won’t have a dedicated helicopter service unless a fresh arrangement is finalised.Meanwhile, Chipsan Aviation has submitted a fresh proposal to continue providing helicopter services on a pay-per-use basis, without a monthly contract. Under the proposal, a twin-engine helicopter would cost Rs 4 lakh per flying hour, while a single-engine helicopter would be available for Rs 3.2 lakh per hour, depending on the aircraft configuration.Under the previous agreement, govt paid Rs 80 lakh for 25 hours of helicopter availability, irrespective of actual usage.The state police chief had recommended renewing the helicopter arrangement, citing the time saved and reduced workload in certain official and police-related duties. However, govt is yet to decide on the renewal.The helicopter arrangement was introduced during the first Pinarayi Vijayan govt when Loknath Behera was the state police chief. Govt initially contracted Pawan Hans before the service was subsequently handed over to Chipsan Aviation.The helicopter has been used for various official requirements, including police duties and emergency operations. Organ transportation is currently among the key uses for which helicopter services may be needed.Govt is examining an alternative arrangement under which private helicopters could be hired when required for organ transportation, potentially through corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds of private hospitals, with govt coordination.Earlier, Congress, while in the opposition, had questioned the expenditure for the helicopter arrangement.
