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Helicopters you can charter in India: the types operators fly

Helicopters are almost half of India’s charter fleet. Knowing the main types helps you ask for the right one.

Private aviationBy AIR BITOLA7 min read

India’s charter helicopters do far more than ferry VIPs. They fly offshore crews to oil platforms, carry pilgrims, support elections and film shoots, and evacuate patients. Here is what the fleet looks like, counted from DGCA’s list of non-scheduled operators and grouped by family.

Single-engine workhorses

  • Airbus H125 / AS350 (34): the most common charter helicopter in India, widely used in the mountains.
  • Bell 407 (17): a popular single-engine type for passenger flights.
  • Airbus EC130 (12): a wide single-engine cabin often used for tourism and pilgrim shuttles.
  • Bell 206 (7) and Robinson R44/R66 (9): smaller types for short trips and training.

Twin-engine corporate and utility types

  • Dauphin AS365 (28): a long-serving twin used by large operators, including offshore.
  • Leonardo A109, AW109 and A119 (25): fast corporate helicopters.
  • Bell 412 (21) and Sikorsky S-76 (12): medium twins common in offshore and utility work.
  • Leonardo AW169 (13) and AW139 (9): newer medium twins.
  • Airbus H145/BK117 (9), H160 (8) and EC135 (6): modern twins seen in corporate and medical roles.
  • Mil Mi-17/171 (6): heavy helicopters for large loads.

Who holds them

Three operators hold more than a third of the helicopters: Pawan Hans (36), Global Vectra Helicorp (26) and Heligo Charters (16). By listed address, Maharashtra-registered operators hold 78 helicopters, Delhi 58, Uttar Pradesh 36, Haryana 15, Karnataka 12 and Kerala 11.

State and city counts use the address each operator gives in DGCA’s list. Aircraft often fly from other bases, so read these as where companies are registered, not where every aircraft is parked.

Helicopter or plane?

Helicopters fly in daylight and good weather under the rules most charters use, and they need an approved helipad or aerodrome. BookAir explains daylight and weather limits and when a helicopter beats a light jet on short sectors. For weddings, see helipads and clearances.

For pilgrimages, read our guide to helicopter travel for pilgrimages. To book a private helicopter, request a quote; browse helicopter operators.

Common questions

How many charter helicopters are there in India?

225 helicopters were on DGCA charter permits as on 31 August 2026.

What is the most common charter helicopter in India?

The Airbus H125, also known as the AS350, with 34 on DGCA’s list.

Can helicopters fly at night on charter in India?

Most helicopter charters fly in daylight and suitable weather. Ask the operator about the specific aircraft and route.

Sources

General information, checked against the sources above on the date published. It is not legal, regulatory or medical advice. Rules change, so confirm with DGCA or the relevant authority before acting.

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