Maharashtra Minister's Agusta Chopper Grounded Over Safety Flaw

• An Agusta 109 helicopter (VT-OSC) carrying Maharashtra Minister Pankaja Munde was grounded by DGCA due to a technical issue.
• The issue, excessive play in a main rotor blade's pitch operating link rod, was found during post-flight checks at Aurangabad Airport.
• The helicopter, operated by Lakework Office Club Pvt. Ltd., had completed four sectors before landing.
• All subsequent sorties were cancelled, and the charter agency was informed about the grounding.
• This incident follows increased scrutiny on helicopter safety in Maharashtra after Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's fatal plane crash in Baramati.

Why It Matters: A safety flaw grounded a minister's chopper, highlighting ongoing concerns about aviation safety in Maharashtra.