The demand for helicopters has increased during the election season. With the increase in demand, the earnings of helicopter companies have also doubled. Within five years, there has been a rapid increase in the number of leaders campaigning by helicopter. The demand for helicopters has increased by one-third in 2024 compared to 2019. The market is so high that the number of helicopters has reduced. Generally, helicopter fare ranges from Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 2.5 lakh.
However, since it is election season, helicopter companies started taking advantage of the opportunity. Now, the one-hour fare has reached Rs 4 lakh each. Let us also know the fare for helicopters and chartered planes in general. The fare for a chartered aircraft is around Rs 4 to 5 lakh per hour; the cost of one minute is more than Rs 8 thousand. Meanwhile, a helicopter with two engines costs Rs 1.5 lakh to 1.7 lakh.
There are about 250 helicopters across the country, of which 100 to 125 are used only for campaigning in the Lok Sabha elections. However, campaigning with only flying instruments across the country spread in 543 Lok Sabha constituencies is expensive.
These Expenses Are Also Included In Helicopter Booking
Other expenses are also included in the helicopter booking. For example, the cost of catering for the crew members, hotel accommodation, and parking is included. Due to this, the helicopter fare increases manifold, and companies benefit more from this.
During the election campaign, the leaders must go to remote areas without proper roads; in such a situation, a helicopter saves time and relieves the leaders from fatigue. Many leaders have to address four to five rallies in a day. In such a situation, the helicopter is the only suitable vehicle for every party and every big leader.
Apart From Big Parties Like BJP and Congress, Many Parties Book
Regional parties have also made helicopter bookings on a large scale, but BJP has won in helicopter booking out of 250 helicopters; BJP has already made about 80 per cent of bookings, which is why more helicopters are hovering during his election campaign. The Election Commission is also alert on politicians’ use of helicopters. The Election Commission has issued guidelines for airports, airlines and helicopter companies. So that transactions can be monitored through helicopters.
