Heliports in Uttarakhand
To improve connectivity in Uttarakhand's geographically challenging terrain, the state government is developing robust air service infrastructure. As part of this initiative, heliports have been successfully constructed at eight locations over the past two years, with work underway on heliports at six additional sites.
Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UKADA) has prepared heliports in Sahasradhara, Srinagar, Gauchar, Chinyalisaur, Haldwani, Almora, Pithoragarh and Munsiyari in the last two years, which are now providing their regular services to the passengers.
UCADA has started work on heliports in Trijuginarayan, Joshimath, Mussoorie, Ramnagar, Bageshwar, Haridwar. The target has been set to complete the work in all these places in the next one year.
List of Heliports in Uttarakhand
- Sahasradhara
- Srinagar
- Gauchar
- Chinyalisaur
- Haldwani
- Almora
- Pithoragarh
- Munsiyari
Upcoming Heliports in Uttarakhand
- Trijuginarayan
- Joshimath
- Mussoorie
- Ramnagar
- Bageshwar
- Haridwar
What is a Heliport?
A heliport is a specially designated area designed for the landing, takeoff, and sometimes the maintenance of helicopters. It serves as a smaller version of an airport but is specifically tailored for helicopter operations. Heliports may be located in urban areas, near hospitals, on rooftops, or in remote locations, depending on their purpose.
A heliport is designed to accommodate multiple helicopters simultaneously, offering parking and maintenance (hangar) facilities. It also provides essential amenities for passengers, such as rest areas, canteens, and toilets. Heliports are constructed following a layout similar to that of airports, tailored for helicopter operations.
Key Features of a Heliport:
- Helipad: The primary landing and takeoff area, often marked with a large "H" or a circle.
- Lighting Systems: For night operations or low-visibility conditions.
- Navigation Aids: Systems to assist pilots in landing and takeoff, especially in challenging conditions.
- Parking and Maintenance: Space for refueling, minor repairs, or parking helicopters when not in use.
- Passenger Facilities: Some heliports include waiting areas or ticketing services for passengers.
Types of Heliports:
- Hospital Heliports: Used for medical emergencies, allowing air ambulances to transport patients quickly.
- Corporate Heliports: Built by companies for business purposes.
- Public Heliports: Open for general use, often supporting tourism, police, or rescue operations.
- Private Heliports: Owned and operated by private individuals or organizations for personal use.
Heliports play a crucial role in connecting areas that are otherwise difficult to reach by conventional means of transportation.
Question: Are Helipad and Heliport Same Thing?
No, a heliport and a helipad are not the same thing:
Heliport: A heliport is a small airport designed for helicopters, while a helipad is a landing area for helicopters. Heliports are often used for law enforcement, emergency medical services, military operations, and private transportation. They are equipped with facilities for maintenance, fueling, and passenger services.
Helipad: A helipad is a simple landing area for helicopters, often smaller and more basic than a heliport. Helipads can be found on ships, hospitals, buildings, or other locations that require helicopter landings. They are marked with a distinctive "H" symbol.
