Copter ride from Kovai to Ooty soon

Launched by Just Fly Aviation Ltd, the helicopter tourism has turned out to be a unique opportunity for international travellers, businessmen and those wanting to fly to the hills. A six seater helicopter has been used for the services.

“For about a week from May 1, joy rides will be organised from Coimbatore to Ooty and back. This 40-minute non-stop ride costs Rs 13,000 per person. 

Similarly, for five days from May 10, one can go on a 10-minute joy ride on the helicopter and enjoy a panoramic, breath-taking view of Coimbatore. This costs Rs 4,000 per head,” said SN Rajesh, managing director, Just Fly Aviation.

The firm will use the helipad of a private hospital at NGGO Colony and the government facility in Theetukkal in Ooty. Tour plans can also be altered based on individual needs and preferences, and would be charged accordingly.

“There is a huge potential for helicopter tourism in Tamil Nadu. It was a success when brief joy ride services were organised recently in Pollachi. Preparations are now underway to launch similar services from Madurai to Kodaikanal. We are also in talks with the government to develop more such helipads across Tamil Nadu,” Rajesh added.

“Talks are on with the state government seeking a subsidy in order to reduce the cost of ride fare,” said the official. The launch of helicopter service is likely to boost tourism potential in the hills. “It is one of the long-felt needs of the tourists visiting Ooty. An increase in inflow of tourists will help local economy to grow,” said S Rajaram, a hotelier in Ooty Town.

However, green activists in Ooty expressed reservations over introducing helicopter services for commercial purpose due to the high decibel noise that would disturb the wild animals. 

“The loud noise can even lead to abortions in pregnant elephants. It may also result in an increase in conflict with human beings. When a similar initiative was launched a decade ago, we protested and stopped the helicopter services,” recalled V Jeevanandan, president of Tamil Nadu Green Movement.