Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Helicopter Service Complete Guide
Complete Guide to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi SMVDSB Chopper Facility This Year
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Helicopter Tickets (recent post by P 2sky) Devi Shrine Board operates the official helicopter service between Katra and Sanjichhat, providing devotees with a convenient alternative to the traditional trek. This exhaustive guide covers everything about the shrine board's aviation services, including booking procedures, security measures, and 2024 improvements.
1. Introduction of Shrine Board Chopper Facility
The SMVDSB launched its helicopter service in the early 90s to help elderly pilgrims and people having mobility challenges. Today, it has grown into a comprehensive operation with: (Image: https://www.freepixels.com/class=)
Number of Choppers: 6 modern aircraft (Bell 407) Daily Capacity: Over 500 pilgrims each day Service Timings: Sunrise to sunset (subject to conditions) Safety Record: Zero accidents since inception
2. Route Details & Journey Experience
A. Flight Path
Departure Point: Katra Aviation Base (Altitude: 754m) Destination: Sanjichhat Aviation Base (Elevation: 6,496ft) Distance Covered: 6.5km (direct path) Travel Time: Under 10 minutes
B. Passenger Experience
Pre-flight Process: Baggage screening + Passenger weighing During Journey: Breathtaking views of Trikuta mountains Seating Arrangement: 5-6 passengers per sortie Noise Level: Noise-cancelling headphones provided on request
3. Booking Procedures with Shrine Board
A. Online Booking
Visit official portal: SMVDSB website Select „Helicopter Services“ section Choose trip option (one-way) Select travel schedule Fill traveler information Complete transaction via secure gateway Save booking confirmation
B. Offline Booking
Main Office: Near Katra Railway Station City Office: Rail Head Complex Necessary Papers: Government ID + Recent pictures Payment Methods: Card payments
4. Safety Standards & Policies
A. Security Procedures
Crew Training: Experienced pilots with 5000+ hours Chopper Servicing: Daily checks by DGCA-approved technicians Climate Checks: Real-time updates from weather department Contingency Plans: Medical kits and rescue protocols in place
B. Travel Rules
Age Restrictions: Infants below 2 no charge, 2-12 years at child rate Baggage Allowance: 5kg per person only Medical Restrictions: Pregnant women beyond 6 months restricted Clothing Guidelines: Comfortable attire recommended
5. 2024 Upgrades to Service
The Shrine Board has recently introduced several upgrades:
Reservation Software: Quick confirmation with live slot updates Improved Security: Upgraded radar systems implemented Traveler Amenities: Improved chairs and temperature management Digital Initiatives: QR code tickets and notification system Accessibility Features: Special assistance at both helipads
6. Fares & Discounts Current Year
Journey Type Standard Fare Discounted Fare
Katra to Sanjichhat (One Way) Rs. 1825 Rs. 1642 (Senior Citizens)
Return Journey INR 1,825 Rs. 1642 (Groups)
Round Trip INR 3,650 INR 3,285 (Advance Booking)
7. Benefits of Official Chopper Ride?
Guaranteed Safety: Government-regulated services Transparent Pricing: Standard rates with GST invoices Dependable Operations: Timely services backed by government board Passenger Protection: Accident cover provided with all bookings
8. FAQs About SMVDSB Helicopter Service
Q1. How often do helicopters operate daily?
Every 10-15 minutes during operating hours, subject to conditions.
Q2. Can I carry medical equipment on board?
Certainly, with proper prescription and advance notice.
Q3. What happens during bad weather?
Services halt immediately; full refund offered.
Q4. Is photography allowed during the flight?
Yes, but no flash and from your seat.
Final Thoughts
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board helicopter service provides a secure, dependable, and convenient option to the traditional trek, especially for elderly pilgrims, parents with kids, and short-duration pilgrims. With continuous improvements and rigorous security protocols, it remains the first option for thousands of pilgrims every year.
For latest information, visit official website: SMVDSB website or contact helpline: 01991-234805.