In a bid to boost regional connectivity, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is working on the fastest commissioning of Hindustan-228 (VT-KNR) civil aircraft. Amid the celebrations of India's 75th Independence Day, Ground Run and Low-Speed Taxi Trials (LSTT) were successfully conducted for this vehicle at HAL's Kanpur center. With this intervention, the premier 'Made in India' aircraft was tested for the DGCA 'Type Certification'.
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Indranil Chakraborty, Director, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had stated that the type certification will allow HAL to get the international certificate for the aircraft. Being aligned with the latest FAR 23 certification requirements, it can be expected that the vehicle will be deployed for public usage soon. Given its features, Hindustan-228 can be used by civil companies for fueling inter and intra-state transport facilities.
The newly manufactured aircraft is a 19-seater vehicle that can be used for a variety of purposes like VIP transport, air ambulance, passenger transport, flight inspection roles and cloud seeding. Besides, it can also be used for adventurous activities like Para jumping, aerial surveillance, photography and cargo applications. As per reports, it is equipped with a digital cockpit that allows accurate readings, precise information and required data displays.
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Reportedly, the aircraft built on the lines of German Dornier 228 defence transport aircraft has been developed under the central government's regional connectivity scheme called UDAN. It has been stated that the HAL's Transport Aircraft Division in Kanpur has been involved in the business of transport and trainer aircraft for defence customers. As per reports, the organisation plans to export the new vehicle to Nepal, once it is ready for use.
- With inputs from ANI
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