HAL expects certification of indigenous amphibious ‘Hindustan 228’ within 2 years

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) expects to receive certification for its under-development amphibious aircraft within the next two years, according to a Businessline report.

HAL believes the aircraft has strong potential in India and in friendly island nations such as Malaysia, Mauritius, and Seychelles. HAL has been manufacturing the Dornier-228 aircraft for the Indian armed forces since 1983.

In 2022, the civil aviation regulator approved its civilian version, which was renamed the Hindustan 228. The approval was granted by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Now, HAL is working on an amphibious version of the Hindustan 228, a variant that can take off and land on both land and water. The project has gained momentum after the Central government announced plans to promote the indigenous production of seaplanes.

In her recent Union Budget speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the government would introduce financial incentives to support seaplane manufacturing in India. She also announced viability gap funding to make seaplane operations commercially sustainable.

This funding support is expected to encourage airlines to operate such aircraft, especially in remote and island regions. HAL stated that the design and development activities for the amphibious version are progressing steadily.

The project includes the design, manufacturing, testing, and certification of airworthy amphibious floats. These floats will be fitted with landing gear and special attachment structures, allowing the aircraft to operate on both water and land.

The company said all required analysis and testing will be carried out to meet airworthiness regulations. Certification of the amphibious aircraft is expected within 24 months. HAL sees a promising market for amphibious aircraft in India, particularly in regions with vast coastlines, rivers and island territories.

Such aircraft can improve connectivity to remote areas where building conventional airports may not be feasible. The company also expects export opportunities in friendly countries that have similar geographical conditions, especially nations with scattered islands and large water bodies.

Countries such as Malaysia, Mauritius, and Seychelles are seen as potential markets, along with other neighbouring island nations. The seaplane project is part of HAL’s broader strategy to expand its presence in the civil aviation sector.

Traditionally known for its defence manufacturing, HAL now aims to significantly increase revenue from commercial aircraft. Currently, only about 5% of HAL’s revenue comes from the civil aviation segment. The company plans to raise this to 25% over the next decade.

As part of this expansion plan, HAL has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation for manufacturing the SJ-100 aircraft in India. It is also working on the Dhruv NG helicopter programme.

So far, HAL has built two Hindustan 228 aircraft for civilian use. One of them has been operating with Alliance Air since 2022.

With government support and a growing focus on regional connectivity, HAL’s amphibious aircraft could soon play a key role in connecting India’s coastal and island regions, while also opening up new export opportunities abroad.