Government of Keralam. says Lok Ayukta will not renew helicopter contract

Social activist KM Shajahan approached the Kerala Lok Ayukta alleging that Chief Minister VD Satheesan received an undue financial advantage from an air service operator at a time when the government was considering a proposal regarding the continuation of the company’s helicopter services.

The state government on Tuesday (October 06, 2026) informed the Kerala Lok Ayukta that it will not renew its helicopter services contract with Chipsan Aviation Pvt. Ltd.

State police chief Ravada A. Chandrasekhar interpreted the government’s stand while the anti-corruption body heard a petition related to the controversial charter flight trip by Chief Minister VD Satheesan. It is the first time the government has formally put its position on the helicopter contract in writing.

‘monetary advantage’

The matter came under scrutiny after the controversy over Mr. Satheesan’s chartered flight to Malappuram. Social activist KM Shajahan approached the Lok Ayukta alleging that the Chief Minister received an undue financial advantage from an air service operator at a time when the government was considering a proposal regarding the continuation of the company’s helicopter services. The complaint alleged corruption and abuse of office in connection with the arrangement.

However, the government rejected the allegations of corruption and insisted that the chief minister’s visit to Malappuram was not for any personal purpose. According to a government filing, the Prime Minister traveled in connection with the coordination of disaster management activities.

Under the expired contract, the company provided helicopter services to the state government for a monthly fee of around ₹80,000. The three-year agreement expired on September 19, 2026, after which the company submitted a new proposal to provide helicopter services on a pay-per-use basis.

The case was adjourned until November 3, 2026.

Published – 06 Oct 2026 21:09 IST