An Indian Coast Guard (ICG) helicopter on a routine training sortie from Kochi on Thursday (April 23, 2026) noon deviated from its intended track and flew over the hills of Pamba, where Sabarimala Ayyapppa Temple is located, reportedly following inclement weather.
The unusual sight reportedly led to people shooting videos of the ‘low-flying’ helicopter over the Sabarimala temple shrine, which is a high-security zone.
Pandalam family member criticises Kerala for stance in Sabarimala entry dispute
ICG sources said on Thursday the incident occurred following “high clouds and deteriorated weather conditions” in the area. Post clear weather, the chopper returned to its base at Kochi. The helicopter (CG 821) was on a routine training sortie from Kochi, to 60-80 miles south. It was flying at 6,000 feet height, the sources added.
Meanwhile, the police in Pathanamthitta district have registered a case in connection with the incident.
