Helicopter pilot who died in Uttarakhand crash an Army veteran and father of 4-month-old twins
On the morning of June 15, 2025, a helicopter carrying pilgrims from Kedarnath to Guptkashi crashed near Gaurikund in Uttarakhand. The crash claimed seven lives—six pilgrims and the pilot, Lt Col (Retd) Rajveer Singh Chauhan. He wasn’t just a skilled aviator. He was a decorated soldier, a loving husband, and a proud new father of twins.
A Life of Honor and Service
Rajveer Chauhan was born and raised in Shastri Nagar, Jaipur. In 2009, he joined the Indian Army’s Regiment of Artillery. Later, he transferred to the Army Aviation Corps, where he flew helicopters across some of India’s most difficult terrains.
He flew missions in Siachen, flood-affected zones, and near conflict borders. He served with distinction for over 15 years and logged more than 2,000 flight hours. Friends and colleagues admired his discipline and calm nature. Even after retiring in 2023, his desire to serve didn’t fade. He joined Aryan Aviation in October 2024 and started flying pilgrims to the Himalayan shrines.
A Young Family’s Joy Turns to Tragedy
Rajveer married Lt Col Deepika Chauhan, an officer in the Indian Army, in 2011. The couple waited many years to become parents. Their joy doubled in early 2025 with the birth of twins—a boy and a girl.
The family had planned a celebration for June 30 to welcome the babies. Relatives and friends had been invited. The couple looked forward to starting a new chapter together.
On June 15, Rajveer flew a Bell 407 helicopter despite bad weather conditions. As he neared Gaurikund, fog and low visibility made the journey dangerous. He informed a colleague that he was trying to land. Moments later, the connection was lost. The helicopter crashed. All seven people on board died.
That day was Father’s Day. Instead of joy, his family faced unimaginable grief. His children, only four months old, will grow up hearing stories of their brave father.
A Troubling Pattern of Incidents
This was the fifth helicopter incident in the Char Dham region in just six weeks. Weather in the Himalayas can change rapidly, making flying risky. Experts believe overcrowded schedules and lack of enforcement also contribute to such accidents.
In response, the Uttarakhand government suspended helicopter flights to Kedarnath for two days. The Ministry of Civil Aviation also halted Aryan Aviation’s services. A full investigation began immediately. Teams from the DGCA, AAIB, NDRF, and SDRF are involved.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami promised stronger safety rules. Only experienced pilots will fly on these routes. Flight frequency will be reduced. The goal is to protect both passengers and crew in the future.
A National Outpouring of Grief
People across the country mourned Rajveer’s death. Leaders like Bhajan Lal Sharma, Ashok Gehlot, and Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore offered their condolences. Veterans in Jaipur held a tribute in his honor. Friends remembered him as dependable, kind, and devoted to his duties.
One friend said, “He was the kind of man who never complained, no matter the task. He just got things done.” Rajveer had spoken excitedly about teaching his children how to ride bicycles and taking them on mountain treks one day.
His dream was cut short, but his values live on through those who knew and loved him.
A Hero Beyond the Headlines
Rajveer Chauhan’s story reminds us that service doesn’t end with retirement. He chose to fly again—not for profit, but to help others complete a sacred journey. He knew the risks of flying in the mountains. Still, he showed up every day with commitment and courage.
His legacy is more than a tragic headline. It is a symbol of duty, love, and sacrifice. As his wife and children carry on, the nation remembers him as a soldier, a pilot, and a father who gave everything.
