India Unveils Hansa-3 NG Trainer Aircraft, Plans for 19-Seater

India has officially launched the production version of the indigenous Hansa-3 NG, marking a significant milestone in the country’s aviation sector. On October 7, 2023, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, announced the new trainer aircraft at the CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) in Bengaluru. This event underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its aerospace capabilities through indigenous technology and industry collaboration.

During his address, Dr. Singh emphasized that India is undergoing a remarkable transformation in its aerospace and aviation landscape. He referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making air travel accessible to all, stating, “Hawai chappal wala bhi Hawai jahaj mein chalega” (Even those wearing flip-flops will fly in airplanes). The launch of the Hansa-3 NG is a significant step towards establishing India as a global aviation hub and a self-reliant aerospace manufacturing nation.

Details of the Hansa-3 NG Launch

The Hansa-3 NG is India’s first all-composite two-seater trainer aircraft, specifically designed to meet the growing demand for Private Pilot License (PPL) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL) training. Dr. Singh noted that following the Transfer of Technology ceremony held in Delhi earlier this year, the industry partner, M/s Pioneer Clean Amps, is making rapid progress. The company is establishing a manufacturing facility in Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh, with an investment of ₹150 crore, aiming to produce up to 100 aircraft annually.

As the country anticipates a need for nearly 30,000 pilots over the next 15 to 20 years, the Hansa-3 NG is seen as a vital component in addressing this requirement while reducing reliance on foreign trainer aircraft. Dr. Singh highlighted that this initiative will also foster new opportunities for livelihood and entrepreneurship in aviation.

Future Developments in Aviation

Dr. Singh also discussed the ongoing development of the SARAS Mk-2, a 19-seater light transport aircraft being designed for both civilian and military applications. The aircraft will feature a pressurized cabin, digital avionics, a glass cockpit, autopilot capabilities, and enhanced efficiency through significant weight and drag reduction. This project aims to support regional connectivity and fulfil India’s demand for indigenous short-haul passenger aircraft.

During the event, the Minister inaugurated the Iron Bird Facility for the SARAS Mk-2. This facility is essential for full-system integration, ground testing, and validation of aircraft subsystems. Dr. Singh noted that such advancements significantly mitigate flight-testing risks and expedite development timelines, allowing engineers to identify design and software issues early in the process.

Additionally, the Minister announced the establishment of a dedicated manufacturing facility for High Altitude Platforms (HAPs). This initiative aims to position India among the select few nations developing solar-powered unmanned aircraft capable of flying above 20 km for extended missions. Currently, CSIR-NAL’s subscale vehicle has successfully reached an altitude of 7.5 km with an endurance of over 10 hours. The first full-scale flight is anticipated to achieve 20 km by 2027.

Dr. Singh noted that HAPs provide a cost-effective alternative to satellites for various applications, including surveillance and environmental monitoring, thus expanding India’s presence in the aerospace sector.

Furthermore, he inaugurated the NAviMet system at HAL Airport, reinforcing CSIR-NAL’s contributions to aviation safety through previously deployed systems like DRISHTI and AWOS. With over 175 systems operational, NAviMet enhances real-time visibility and weather parameters crucial for safe landings and take-offs.

The Minister also witnessed the formalization of CSIR-NAL’s collaboration with M/s Solar Defence & Aerospace Ltd. for developing an indigenous 150-kg class Loitering Munition UAV. This UAV, powered by NAL’s certified Wankel engine, is expected to have a range of 900 km and an endurance of 6-9 hours, featuring advanced capabilities such as GPS-denied navigation and AI-enabled target identification.

In closing, Dr. Singh reaffirmed the importance of a collaborative approach between government laboratories and private industry to drive national growth. He urged CSIR-NAL to enhance its outreach to investors and aspiring entrepreneurs, ensuring that India’s scientific achievements inspire future generations. The Minister concluded by stating that the advancements showcased today are part of a broader national initiative aiming to position India as a global aviation hub by 2035 and a fully developed nation by 2047.