New Delhi: The country's first integrated heliport was inaugurated in the national capital on Monday, with Civil Aviation Minister A Gajapathi Raju saying it is the first of its kind facility in South Asia.
Built by state-owned Pawan Hans Ltd, the heliport consists of a terminal building, having a capacity of 150 passengers, four hangars with parking capacity for 16 helicopters and nine parking bays.
"This is the first of its kind facility in South Asia, which has been built by Pawan Hans Ltd here," Raju said after inaugurating the heliport, located in Rohini area of North Delhi.
The heliport also has maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility for the upkeep of Pawan Hans fleet as well as for the third-party maintenance work.
"Helicopter and cargo are still at a minuscule level in the country. If we have to take them to the higher level, it needs training (training in skill development)," the Minister said.
While stating that domestic air passenger traffic in India is seeing the fastest growth in the world, he also said, "We need to pull our socks".
In January, domestic air traffic growth was more than 25 percent.
The commencement of services from the heliport is also expected to reduce congestion at the Delhi airport, which currently handles about 40-50 helicopter arrivals and departures on an average per day besides the large-scale fixed-wing operations.
Minister of State for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal and Pawan Hans CMD B P Sharma, among others, were present at the ceremony.
