Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu flagged off the inaugural flight of Dhruv NG civil variant helicopter in Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) helicopter division in Bengaluru today. The helicopter received civil certification from Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for its indigenous Shakti engine. 

 

 

Minister Rammohan Naidu described it as a landmark moment when HAL is foraying into Civil Aviation sector. He said that the civil variant of Dhruv will give a big boost to Atmanirbharata in civil aviation sector. He said that Pawan Hans has indicated interest in acquiring Dhruv NG apart from BSF and Karnataka state Government. He also said the Government is taking initiative to promote regional connectivity through helicopters and HAL can play an important role in manufacturing civil helicopters within the country.