Archive · 30 Jan 2026
Mohali’s new VIP helipad unusable due to IAF restrictions
The Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) built a new helipad in Mohali for VIPs.
However, it can't be used because it's too close to a big airport.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) needs to give special permission for any helicopter to land or take off from this helipad.
Plus, there's a long wait time of 3-4 hours because of the nearby airport's flight paths.
So, even though the helipad is ready, it hasn't been used even once since it was built.
The VIP helipad constructed by GMADA near Vikas Bhavan in Mohali cannot be used for landing Punjab government helicopters.
The helipad falls within the flight line of Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, requiring IAF permission for any operations.
Sources indicate the helipad has not been used even once since its construction earlier this month.
Landing a helicopter at the helipad would require a wait of 3-4 hours and additional IAF approvals.
The process for obtaining IAF approvals is described as tiring and time-consuming.
- Who
- Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA)
- What
- Construction of a VIP helipad
- When
- Earlier this month
- Where
- Near Vikas Bhavan, Mohali
- Why
- To facilitate landing of Punjab government helicopters, but unusable due to IAF restrictions
- Location
- Near Vikas Bhavan, Mohali
- Constructed by
- Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA)
- Usage
- Not used even once since construction
- Restriction Reason
- Falls within the flight line of Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport
- Required Permission
- Indian Air Force (IAF) approval for landing and takeoff
- Estimated Wait Time
- 3-4 hours for landing
