The operation of subsidised helicopter service from Shey-Smanla helipad was flagged off by Lieutenant Governor UT Ladakh Radha Krishna on March 7.  A total of 12 passengers from both sides travelled on March 7.   

The helicopter service will cater to passengers from far-flung areas of Ladakh as per the approved routes from Leh to Lingshed, Nyerchung, Neraks, Yulchung, Padum, Singey Lalok, Dibling, Drass, Nubra, Srinagar and back, Leh-Kargil, Kargil-Srinagar, Kargil-Padum on subsidised rates. Besides, this service will be available for rescue as well as medical evacuation purposes also. 

Lt. Governor Mathur gave directions to start with the building of hangar for maintenance, night-halt and parking. Steps should also be taken for underground storage for fuel. He also gave directions for building sound infrastructure at all the helipads.

Advisor to LG Ladakh Umang Narula, Secretary Ladakh Saugat Biswas, Deputy Commissioner Leh Sachin Kumar, Additional Deputy Commissioner Leh Dr. Zahida Bano, Joint General Manager Er Wing Pawan Hans Satnam Singh, Pilot and co-pilot were also present.