“Make In India” augurs well for investment in the state but its timing has upset love birds desirous of celebrating Valentine’s Day up in the air, particularly over eastern parts of the city and Powai
“Make In India” augurs well for investment in the state but its timing has upset love birds desirous of celebrating Valentine’s Day up in the air, particularly over eastern parts of the city and Powai-Vihar lakes.
Aviation experts said that Valentine’s Day aeroplane and helicopter joyrides over these parts have been cancelled after issue of Notam (Notice to Airmen) on the same. Notam is a written notification issued to pilots before a flight, advising them of circumstances relating to the state of flying.
CEO of Yagna Aviation, Nandan Koregaonkar, said, “Last year, we had seven hours of flying with 200 passengers, a record in itself, but this year, we are talking less booking due to fear of Notam. At least 32 people cancelled their tickets when they came to know that choppers are not flying in the direction of Airoli and Powai lake due to Notam.”
Apparently, a few people had decided to propose to their partners by setting up banners atop their buildings, which they wanted to show their loved ones from the helicopter or airplane. When they realised the helicopter/airplane would not fly over their area, they cancelled bookings.
Rahul Muacchal of Accretion Aviation, said, “Last year, we had 50 bookings but this year, we booked 32 people only, and are sold out from 11 am to 1 pm and then 3 pm to 4 pm to avoid the Notam risk. But some people are scared of Notam so they are not coming forward for booking.”
Pawan Hans officials said they have got 65 bookings and will undertake 17 sorties on Valentine’s Day.
Falguni Gaglani, a joyride regular, was upset. “This year too, I wanted to go on board with my husband to celebrate Valentine’s Day but we decided to avoid a ticket booking as most probably on Sunday, flights will either get delayed or cancelled due to VIP movements around the city,” she said.
