A private company began helicopter tours in Kovalam, a village near Tiruporur, in 2023. The service, which allowed passengers to enjoy five-minute flights over the scenic coastline, was abruptly stopped but resumed on January 10, 2024. Tickets were priced at ₹6,000 per person for the aerial tour. However, concerns arose when it was found that the service was operating without the necessary permissions from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) or other relevant authorities.
Tiruporur MLA Balaji sent a letter to the District Collector raising concerns about the illegal operation of the helicopter tourism service. The letter mentioned that the private company had not received approval from the DGCA, and there was public opposition to the helicopter flights in the region. When the Collector's office was contacted, officials from the police, revenue, and district administration confirmed that no permission had been granted for the service.
The authorities also highlighted the potential risks involved in operating the helicopters without proper safety measures, including the qualifications of the pilots and maintenance of the aircraft. The district administration took swift action, and at around 1:00 PM on the same day, the Tiruporur Tasildar, Natarajan, along with revenue officials, sealed the Kovalam helicopter facility. A notice was also affixed to the office, informing the public about the suspension of operations.
Tiruporur Tasildar Natarajan explained that the district administration had not granted any permission for the service. He added that in the event of an accident involving the public, the district administration would be held accountable. The facility operators, however, claimed to have obtained permission, but the district administration has asked them to provide evidence of the approval.
This action by the authorities underscores the importance of adhering to regulatory standards for safety and ensures the well-being of the public in the region.
