Gangtok: In a bid to improve the Civil aviation facilities in the state, Chief Minister PS Tamang Friday joined by Tourism Minister BS Panth witnessed the demonstration of MI-172 here at Burtuk helipad hosted by Tourism Department.
A 26-seater MI-712 double-engine helicopter of Skyone Airways landed at Burtuk Helipad here this morning from Guwahati. ‘The 26 seater Helicopter will be beneficial to the public and corporates here. It will also give security to travellers due to its double engine mechanism,’ said Tamang.
The funds for 26 seaters have been allocated in the coming budget, however, Central Govt is expected to subsidise it, he said.
Tourism Minister stated research will be done on the Copter fatalities if any so far and other important aspects before the final decision to push it into service in the State. It will be running between Gangtok to Bagdogra and Guwahati. The plans for up-gradation of the existing Helipad are in place.
The trial run up to Namchi, South Sikkim, carried Minister for Roads Samdup Lepcha and Jacob Khaling Political Secretary to CM with four others related to Tourism Department.
The Russian designed Helicopters with carrying capacity of 24-26,3 crew and 13000kg weight are being used in the country. It will possibly stop Pawan Hans regular flights.
