Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Defence
Why in News?
Science and Technology Minister recently said that India has initiated the process to build two-seater electric trainer aircraft.
- It will be an indigenously developed next-generation two-seater electric trainer aircraft.
- Agency - CSIR - National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL).
- It is part of the larger HANSA-3 (NG) trainer aircraft program, which is designed to be a cost-effective and indigenous option for pilot training in India.
- It is expected to cost significantly less than imported alternatives, possibly around Rs 2 crore.
- It is a key step towards India’s green aviation goals and use of green or clean energy fuel in running our aircrafts.
HANSA-3 (NG) Trainer Aircraft
- It is an indigenous next-generation, two-seater, ab-initio trainer aircraft developed for pilot training.
- Designed and developed by - CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) in Bengaluru.
- Aim - To offer a budget-friendly alternative to foreign trainer aircraft while facilitating the training of pilots for both Private Pilot License (PPL) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
- This initiative seeks to enhance India's aviation sector, aligning with the increasing demand for qualified pilots in the industry.
- Key Features - Advanced Glass Cockpit for superior digital display and enhanced situational awareness, complemented by a Rotax 912 iSc3 Sport Engine that offers fuel efficiency and digital control.
- Designed with a Bubble Canopy for panoramic visibility and increased pilot comfort, along with lightweight composite airframe and electrically operated flaps.
- Priced at ₹2 crore, this model is approximately 50% more affordable than its imported counterparts.
References
- PIB | Electric Hansa (E-Hansa)
- Business Standard | Electric Hansa (E-Hansa)