YSR copter crash inquiry to end by this month: Patel

New Delhi, Nov 26 (ANI): The Centre on Thursday said the inquiry into the September 2 helicopter crash which killed former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy is expected to be completed by this month end.

Replying to a question in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Praful Patel said: "As per the preliminary findings it was due to bad weather and issues connected with weather. I cannot comment on it as enquiry is on. It is likely to be completed by the end of this month."

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) are looking into the inquiry.

Patel also clarified that the helicopter in which Reddy was travelling was well maintained and the pilots were very experienced.

"But when you are flying Visual Flight Range (VFR) helicopter, pilots should have foreseen the weather," he added.

As far as flying operations are concerned, Patel said, strict monitoring by the DGCA is in place. Similarly the safety norms are on par with the best in the international standard, he said.

Commenting on installation of satellite phone in all helicopters to ensure better communication Patel said: "This will be only an additional tool. All flying helicopters or planes are monitored by radars and other communication devices."

He also informed the House that the feasibility of tracking of helicopters during flight is in preliminary stage of evaluation. (ANI)