Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) has announced that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has approved its modification of the Hindustan-228 regional transport aircraft that can carry 19 passengers.
The new variant has been named Hindustan 228-201 LW and has Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) of 5,695 kg and falls into the sub-5,700 kg aircraft category. HAL also has approval for the Hindustan-228 with an All Up Weight (AUW) of 6,200 kg.
According to the airframer, the Hindustan 228-201 LW provides several operational benefits for operators, including reduced pilot qualification requirement, enabling pilots with commercial pilot license to fly the aircraft. This will lead to enhanced availability of pilots for the aircraft and reduce the operational cost.
The new variant will also result in reduced training requirement for flying and ground crew, including aircraft maintenance engineers.
Alliance Air, a subsidiary of Air India Assets Holding, operates two Hindustan-228s on dry lease, having taken delivery of its first aircraft in April last year.
Hindustan-228 is being offered to operators as a commuter aircraft with 19 seats or 17 seats with a toilet and VIP/ Executive variant with up to 11 seats, worktables, a galley and toilet. It will also be available as an air ambulance with two stretchers with portable oxygen and additional seats for paramedical staff.
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