In a boost to aviation sector, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation(DGCA) has approved a new variant of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's aircraft 'Hindustan 228-201 LW.'
Giving details of the nod, the public sector aerospace conglomerate said on Monday, this variant has maximum take-off weight of 5,695 kg with 19 passenger capability. With this modification, the aircraft would fall in the Sub 5,700 kg aircraft category, the HAL said.
"This variant provides several operational benefits for operators such as reduced pilot qualification requirement enabling pilots with Commercial Pilot License to fly the aircraft, enhanced availability of pilot pool for the aircraft and reduced operational cost," the HAL said.
In addition, the new variant will result in reduced training requirement for flying and ground crew including aircraft maintenance engineers, it was stated.
