Govt Sets Up SPV to Boost Regional Aircraft Manufacturing in India

The government of India is set to establish regional transport aircraft production as a national initiative to become an independent aviation industry player worldwide. Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu set the foundation for aircraft production through the establishment of Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), which serves as a key component of the Make in India program.

In a session of the Rajya Sabha, Naidu highlighted the nation's capability to produce, design, and service aircraft. "We have changed the thought process that we have when it comes to manufacturing of aircraft. We are saying that India is at the stage right now where we can manufacture, we can design and we can maintain an aircraft," he stated.

With domestic airlines placing orders for over 1,500 aircraft, the government is focusing on developing a local aviation manufacturing ecosystem. The SPV, set for a five-year timeline, will bring together key stakeholders, study the market, and create a roadmap for production. "We have a plan to create an SPV for five years, which is going to bring in all the necessary stakeholders... study the existing picture in the country and create a road map," Naidu explained.

India is progressing in homegrown aviation technologies, such as the Saras Mk2, a 19-seat Light Transport Aircraft created by CSIR-NAL in partnership with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). "The Saras Mk2 initiative has a collaboration and partnership with HAL. The aircraft has significant indigenous components and technologies like advanced composite wings, composite and lightweight material airframes, avionics, display, and communication systems," Naidu said.

These advancements indicate India's aim to lessen dependence on international aircraft makers and create a strong supply chain for local aviation.