Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Tuesday flagged off the first flight of the Dhruv NG civil variant helicopter at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) helicopter division in Bengaluru.
The helicopter has received civil certification from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for its indigenous Shakti engine. This approval allows the Dhruv NG to be used for civilian purposes.
Calling it a landmark achievement, the minister said HAL’s entry into the civil aviation sector is an important step. He said the civil version of the Dhruv helicopter will greatly support India’s goal of becoming self-reliant in civil aviation under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Mr. Naidu also said that government-owned helicopter service provider Pawan Hans has shown interest in purchasing the Dhruv NG. In addition, organisations such as the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Karnataka State Government are also considering acquiring the helicopter.
The minister added that the government is working to improve regional connectivity using helicopters, especially in remote and difficult areas. He said HAL can play a key role in manufacturing civil helicopters within the country and strengthening India’s aviation sector.