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Aerial city darshan cheaper by Rs 30 K |
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By: Aditya Anand |
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Date:
2009-01-07 |
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Place:Mumbai |
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You can go on a tour of Mumbai at Rs 20,000 for an hour in a chopper, but without a camera. Huge demand for the aerial darshan from foreign tourists
 Watching the magnificent skyline of the city perched in a chopper will now cost a lot less. You can avail of a Mumbai darshan in a helicopter at Rs 20,000 for an hour, but without a camera and restrictions on flying areas.
"No aerial photography is permitted unless clearances are previously sought," said a spokesperson from the civil aviation ministry.
Three people can go on an aerial tour for Rs 60,000, although operators say the prices may change as per demand. Earlier, an aerial tour of the city cost Rs 50,000 per head for half an hour. The response to the aerial tour has been good. According to Atul Khekade of Airnetz, which is facilitating the chopper service, "There is a huge demand. Based on enquiries, we have earmarked a three-seater Robinson 44 chopper for the tour."
While Raymonds, India Bulls and Summit Aviation also rent out choppers for an the aerial tour, Airnetz will be the first aviation company to chart out an itinerary for the tourists. While India Bulls did not reply to an official e-mail, company officials said there were more enquiries than actual fliers because of the restrictions in force.
"There is always a request from foreign tourists wanting to hover over Mumbai," said travel agent Santosh Thomas.
According to an Airnetz spokesperson, a company commissioned research among travellers visiting India revealed growing demand for such aerial tours.
Flying restrictions
Raj Bhavan Malabar Hill
Mantralaya and Vidhan Bhavan
Military area at Colaba
Sewri oil tanks
INS Hamla at Malad
Aerial tour covers
A. Juhu-racecourse-Colaba-Alibaug and back
B. JuhuâÂÂalong sea cost to Boisar and back |
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