Upgraded Dornier 228 Transport Aircraft For Civil Sector Too
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited received the modification document of HAL Do-228 (Upgraded) civil aircraft during the ongoing Defence Expo 2020 itself. The All Up Weight of this civil version has been reduced to 5700 Kg to meet all the requirements as laid down by DGCA.
The document was handed over by G Rajsekhar, JDG, DGCA to Apurba Roy, General Manager on Thursday at HAL’s Transport Aircraft Division, Kanpur in the presence of Mr R Madhavan, CMD, HAL and senior executives from HAL and DGCA.
The two Civil version of Do-228 earlier manufactured by HAL for launch under UDAN scheme were having state-of-the-art configuration and had already received certifications from DGCA for MTOW at 6200 kg, an official said.
However in order to meet the prospective operator’s requirement of a transport aircraft flyable under Commercial Pilot License (CPL) category, HAL undertook efforts to reduce the aircraft weight below 5,700 Kgs.
Apart from weight criterion, HAL Do-228-201 (Upgraded) civil aircraft will also be equipped with digital cockpit which will ensure more accurate readings, precise information and ergonomic data displays with feedback loops and capability for self-check to alert pilot in emergencies.
The Glass Cockpit architecture enabled aircraft will be most sought after new age aviation technology.
Also, the incorporation of civil certified turbo-prop minus 10 Engine ensures more reliable torque sensing system, higher component life, lighter in weight and higher time between overhaul (TBO) as compared to previous minus 5 engine.
It is also assured that the integration of the five blade propeller to HAL Do-228-201(Upgraded) aircraft will augment in significant reduction in noise levels, faster engine start, less lubrication and better damping characteristics.
The Chief Minister of UP, shri Aditya Nath Yogi has already stated that he intends to link all the major towns of UP by air. The Dornier 228 civil version will prove to be the best for this purpose.
