In a major development at Wings India 2024, commencing January 18 at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the largest DPSU under the Indian Ministry of Defence, is set to showcase its homegrown civil platforms.
Among the highlights are the Hindustan-228 aircraft and the upgraded civil variant of ALH Dhruv helicopter.
The aerospace, and defense equipment manufacturer HAL stall, spanning four days, will exhibit scale models of LUH (civil variant), Hindustan-228, ALH (civil variant), Line Replaceable Units (LRUs), and accessories related to civil aircraft.
Engaging in business meetings with OEMs and customers, HAL aims to solidify agreements with its business partners for various projects during the event.
B. Ananthakrishnan, CMD (Additional Charge), HAL, emphasized the company’s commitment to the ‘Made in India’ initiative for fixed-wing civil aircraft, intending to enhance regional connectivity across the country.
Ananthakrishnan stated, “HAL is leveraging its strengths in manufacturing aircraft like Do-228 and HS-748 and extending its capabilities to civil aircraft programs like the Regional Transport Aircraft. HAL is also actively pursuing collaborations for undertaking civil MRO activities.
At the forefront of the display is the upgraded civil Dhruv helicopter, a variant of the Advanced Light Helicopter.
Weighing 5.5 tonnes, this twin-engine helicopter, designed and developed by HAL, is versatile, serving roles such as disaster management, Search and Rescue (SAR), underslung operations, Heli-tourism, VIP ferry, and more.
Equipped with an Advanced Glass Cockpit and avionics, the helicopter aligns with the Union government’s Regional Connectivity program (RCS).
Another spotlight is on the Hindustan 228 aircraft, a multipurpose, lightweight twin-turboprop aircraft developed by HAL.
Tailored for short-haul air routes under the Regional Connectivity Scheme, UDAN, it serves various roles, including Regional Airliner/Air Taxi, VIP/Executive Transport, Search and Rescue, Casualty evacuation/Ambulance, Cargo and Logistics Support, Calibration of Airport Nav-aids, Geographical surveys, and Aerial photography.
The aircraft features a fully digital Glass Cockpit upgraded avionics, and systems, holding Type Certification by DGCA.
In a forward-looking move, HAL has initiated the development of a civil variant of the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH).
Currently pursuing the LUH civil prototype, HAL aims for DGCA certification, expected to be achieved by December 2025.
This proactive step aligns with HAL’s ongoing efforts to contribute significantly to the civil aviation sector in India.
Source: https://aninews.in/
