This symbolic gesture underscored the government's commitment to domestic aviation innovation.

Civil Aviation Minister Flags Off India’s Next-Gen Dhruv NG Helicopter in Bengaluru

On Tuesday, Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu flagged off the inaugural flight of the next-generation civil helicopter Dhruv NG, which is developed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This marks a key milestone in India’s indigenous aerospace efforts, according to HAL officials.

According to sources, Naidu joined the pilot in the cockpit, gaining firsthand insight into the aircraft’s advanced systems and features before the takeoff from HAL’s Bengaluru facility. This symbolic gesture underscored the government’s commitment to domestic aviation innovation.

After the maiden flight, the minister addressed assembled officials and guests and called the event a “very important milestone in Indian aviation history” and congratulated the HAL workforce, from designers and engineers to technicians, for achieving the long-awaited milestone.

Naidu highlighted that HAL, traditionally defence-focused, is now evolving into a balanced organisation supporting both defence and civil aviation sectors and described Dhruv NG as more than just a machine, a “symbol of India’s capability, confidence and commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat”.

According to HAL officials, the Dhruv NG is a 5.5-tonne light twin-engine, multi-role helicopter designed for rigorous civil and global market demands. It features twin Shakti 1H1C engines, a civil-certified glass cockpit, advanced avionics and safety systems, and a configurable cabin for roles including VIP transport, medical evacuation and disaster relief.

Officials also noted the helicopter’s performance specs: a maximum speed of around 285 km/h, a range of around 630 km, an endurance of about 3 hours 40 minutes, and a high-altitude capability up to 6,000 metres.

Source: The Tribune