The Indian aerospace industry has reached a significant milestone with the successful sea level trials of HANSA-NG, an indigenously developed aircraft trainer. This achievement is a first of its kind, reinforcing India’s position as an innovator in the aerospace sector. The development and testing of HANSA-NG was accomplished by the CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL), the only government aerospace Research & Development laboratory in the civilian sector. Established in 1959, National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) is a part of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the largest Research and Development Organization in India.
About HANSA-NG
The HANSA-NG or HANSA-New Generation is a state-of-the-art flying trainer. It is an enhanced version of the earlier model, HANSA which took to the skies for the first time in 1993, receiving certification in 2000. The project to develop HANSA-NG was given the green light by the Centre in 2018, whereupon NAL re-engineered the HANSA-3 aircraft, fitting it with a glass cockpit and subsequently receiving certification from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The revamped aircraft was showcased at Aero-India 2019, where it left a powerful impression.
Technical Specifications and Features
HANSA-NG runs on a Rotax Digital Control Engine, a cutting-edge piece of technology that ensures optimal efficiency and performance. This aircraft has been created specifically to fill the demand for trainer aircraft among various flying clubs across the country. Its intricate design, combined with the advanced technology, makes it an ideally suited aircraft for Commercial Pilot Licensing (CPL).
Economic Viability of HANSA-NG
Financial feasibility is a key aspect when it comes to training aircraft. What makes HANSA-NG stand out in this regard is its low operational cost alongside its reduced fuel consumption. These factors make it an economically viable option for Commercial Pilot Licensing, thus broadening the opportunities for aspiring pilots in India.
Impact on the Indian Aerospace Industry
The successful sea-level trials of HANSA-NG mark a significant stride in the indigenous development of training aircraft in India. This achievement not only underscores India’s capabilities in the aerospace sector but also highlights the role of institutions like CSIR-NAL in driving technological advancement. Through such endeavours, CSIR-NAL continues to contribute to the growth and evolution of the Indian aerospace industry.
The Road Ahead
The development and success of HANSA-NG illustrate India’s relentless pursuit of innovation in the field of aviation. It underscores the potential for further growth and the possibilities of more outstanding developments in the sector. As India solidifies its position in the global aerospace industry, the future seems promising for budding aviators and the industry in general. The HANSA-NG stands as a testament to what can be achieved through dedication, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Source: PIB
