THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Delhi-based helicopter company Chipsan Aviation, which rejected the DGP's demand for a reduction in the rent of the helicopter to ferry the Chief Minister and senior police officials, increased the flying time from 20 hours to 25 per month. The monthly rent is Rs 80 lakh. If the chopper is used for more than 25 hours, the government will have to pay Rs 90,000 per hour.

Chipsan had quoted Rs 74 lakh in a tender two years ago. The DGP demanded that the helicopter should be rented for this amount. However, the company replied that it had quoted Rs 74 lakh without adding GST and that if it was added, it would be Rs 81 lakh. The company also said that the rent could not be reduced considering the cost of parking at the airport and the cost of maintenance for the pilot and staff. With this, the company decided to give a concession by increasing flying hours to 25 hours per month. The helicopter will reach Thiruvananthapuram within two weeks if approved by the cabinet today.

Chipsan will be providing a chopper that is not more than 15 years old. Safety will be given utmost priority. The state will hire a twin-engine helicopter that will be able to carry six VIP passengers, 9 regular passengers and 10 kg of luggage each. The contract is for three years. It will be extended for two more years.