Helicopter carrying Maharashtra minister Chhagan Bhujbal mistakenly lands in parking lot instead of designated helipad.
April 11, 2026: A helicopter hired by Chhagan Bhujbal created panic after it landed at the wrong location in Purandar on Saturday morning. Instead of touching down at the designated helipad, the chopper landed in a nearby parking lot about a kilometre away. The unexpected landing raised concerns, especially as it comes shortly after the tragic plane crash involving deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar. Bhujbal, however, assured that everyone on board was safe.
The minister had traveled to attend an event marking the 200th birth anniversary of social reformer Jyotiba Phule. Officials said proper arrangements had been made for the landing, including a designated helipad with coordinates shared with the crew. Despite this, the pilot reportedly ignored the assigned location and landed elsewhere, kicking up a large cloud of dust and startling people nearby.
Authorities have taken serious note of the incident, with Pune rural police stating that the matter will be reported to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The pilot may face action pending investigation. Meanwhile, there has been no official response yet from the pilot, crew, or the company operating the helicopter.