Parliamentary Panel report blames ‘human error’ for General Bipin Rawat’s helicopter crash

Report: Pilot error led to Gen Rawat’s copter crash

A Parliamentary Panel Report has concluded that “human error” was the primary cause of the tragic helicopter crash that led to the death of India’s first Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat, and his wife, Madhulika Rawat, on December 8, 2021. The crash, involving a Mi-17 V5 military helicopter, occurred near Coonoor in Tamil Nadu, resulting in the loss of several senior armed forces personnel.

The report, tabled in Parliament on Tuesday by the Standing Committee on Defence, highlighted the findings related to the accident, officially listing the reason for the crash as “human error (aircrew).” The Mi-17 helicopter crash, one of the most high-profile accidents in recent years, had attracted widespread media attention, with many speculating about the cause in the aftermath of the incident.

According to the report, a total of 34 Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft accidents occurred during the 13th Defence Plan period, which includes the crash that claimed General Rawat’s life. The period saw an alarming number of accidents, with nine IAF aircraft crashes recorded in 2021-22 alone and 11 in 2018-19.

The data in the report specifically mentions the Mi-17 V5 accident on December 8, 2021, with the reason listed as “HE(A)” or “human error (aircrew).” The report also shared that a thorough investigation was conducted following these incidents, with the Defence Ministry informing the Committee that 34 inquiries were held into these crashes. These inquiries examined various factors, including operational procedures, equipment maintenance, and training, with the goal of preventing future accidents.

The report further revealed that all recommendations made by the inquiry committees are binding and have either been actioned or are in the process of being implemented. The Defence Ministry’s commitment to ensuring air safety within the Indian Armed Forces is underscored by the implementation of remedial measures to address the issues identified during the investigations.

General Rawat’s death, along with others in the crash, was a significant loss to the Indian military, and this report serves as a somber reminder of the importance of continued vigilance in aviation safety, training, and operational procedures to avoid such tragedies in the future.

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