The launch of the much-awaited heli-tourism project in Karnataka has been delayed due to inclement weather and may take off by Decemberend or early January as per a report by vinay Lokesh in TOI.

Joint commissioner of state tourism department KC Sree Ramiah said, "We hope the skies will be clear by then." On the heli base for the heritage circuit in the first phase, he said, "The base is ready for use in Bagalkot and Bijapur districts but in Bellary district, the tender process has started, However, Jindal authorities have given the nod to use their air strip."

In the first phase called the Heritage Circuit, the project covers Hampi, Badami, Aihole and Pattadkal. Depending on the success of the first phase, the department plans to launch the remaining three circuits in the next phase covering Chikmagalur, Hassan, Belur and Halebid as well as Sringeri, Udupi and Kollur in the Religious Circuit. Udupi, Mangalore and other beaches would be covered under the Coastal Circuit.

Delhi-based OSS Air Management Services, which signed a memorandum with the state government, will operate the choppers along with helipads, ground handling, restrooms