HAL promotes ‘Made in India’ initiative at Wings India

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), an Indian defense public sector undertaking (PSU), is showcasing its indigenously built civil aircraft at Wings India 2024 in Hyderabad over 18–21 January. On display are scale models of the Hindustan-228 aircraft and the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv upgraded civil helicopter.

The upgraded Dhruv is a 5.5-ton, twin-engine helicopter designed and developed by HAL. Its multi-role capabilities make it suited for search and rescue (SAR) operations, disaster management, underslung roles, and heli-tourism, among others. The helicopter has an advanced glass cockpit and avionics and would meet the requirements for the regional connectivity scheme (RCS).

The Hindustan-228 is also a multipurpose aircraft; a lightweight twin turboprop developed by HAL, also meeting the requirements for the RCS. It can be configured for roles including SAR operations, casualty evacuation/ambulance, regional airliner, VIP transport, cargo and logistics support, etc. The aircraft cockpit is upgraded with a fully digital glass cockpit, upgraded avionics and systems.

The PSU is also developing a civil variant of the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), planning to build the prototype with Directorate General of Civil Aviation certification by December 2025.

Describing the ‘Made in India’ initiative to boost regional connectivity in India, C B Ananthakrishnan, Chairman and Managing Director (Additional Charge), HAL, said: “The company 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 maintenance, repair and overhaul activities.”

The Philippines recently put in an offer to buy seven ALH MKIII helicopters to support the search and rescue capabilities of the country’s coast guard.