Bengaluru, India: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Tuesday successfully completed the maiden flight of its next-generation civil helicopter, the Dhruv New Generation (Dhruv-NG), at the Helicopter Division in Bengaluru a landmark in India’s aspiration to expand its indigenous aerospace footprint beyond defence into commercial and global markets.
The next-generation helicopter was flagged off by Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, who also shared the cockpit with the pilot before take-off, underlining government support for self-reliance in aviation manufacturing.
Developed and manufactured by HAL, the Dhruv-NG builds on the company’s existing Dhruv helicopter platform with upgrades tailored to civil aviation requirements. The 5.5-tonne, twin-engine multi-role helicopter is equipped with twin Shakti 1H1C engines an indigenous powerplant that offers enhanced power and the advantage of in-country maintenance and support, according to HAL officials.
The variant features a civil-certified glass cockpit compliant with stringent aviation standards, a modern avionics suite for improved situational awareness, and enhanced safety systems including crashworthy seats and self-sealing fuel tanks.
HAL sources outlined key performance metrics and design features that position Dhruv-NG as a capable civil helicopter:
- Maximum Speed: 285 km/h
- Range: Approx. 630 km with reserves
- Service Ceiling: 6,000 metres
- Endurance: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Passenger Capacity: Configurable to carry up to 14 passengers
The cabin design allows rapid reconfiguration for roles such as VIP/VVIP transport, air ambulance, offshore operations, law enforcement, search and rescue, disaster relief and commuter services.
The successful inaugural flight places HAL on a stronger footing as a cost-effective alternative to imported light twin-engine helicopters, with potential appeal in domestic and international civil aviation markets. It is part of a broader strategy to diversify HAL’s portfolio beyond military platforms and elevate India’s standing as a global aviation manufacturing hub.
Civil Aviation Minister Naidu described the event as a “major Atmanirbharta milestone” and praised the HAL team for advancing India’s self-reliant aerospace capabilities. He highlighted the role of helicopters in upcoming regional connectivity and emergency services expansions under national schemes.
Alongside the flight, HAL received certification from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for the indigenous Shakti civil engine, a significant step towards full civil certification of the Dhruv-NG helicopter before commercial deployment. HAL officials expect remaining certification and performance evaluation sorties to conclude over the coming months
