India to buy 194 microlight planes
Tribune News Service
New Delhi, October 12
India is all set to buy 194 microlight aircraft from Pipistrel, a Slovenian light aircraft manufacturer, for flying-training, surveillance and aerial photography.
Though the company did not specify the deal, it is said to be worth Rs130 crore (US $20 million).
Pipistrel has emerged as tender-winner to supply aircraft to the Indian Air Force, Navy and the National Cadet Corps, a statement of the company said tonight.
Microlight aircraft ‘Virus SW 80 GARUD’ has been selected among eleven international original equipment manufacturers and authorised vendors.
Pipistrel’s CEO Ivo Boscarol said: “With more than a quarter-of-century experience in the field, Pipistrel makes an ideal partner for IAF, Navy and NCC. The plane has been carefully configured with advanced design, state-of-the-art composite construction and modern digital avionics.”
The aircraft is powered by an 80 HP aviation certified engine and can reach a maximum speed of more than 220 kmph, fly for three hours and climb to altitudes in excess of 6,000 metres. The aircraft will be used exclusively for training of Flight Safety and Air Wing Cadets.
The plane is also equipped with a special ballistic parachute rescue system, which saves the entire aircraft and both pilots in case of accident. A Pipistrel statement said in 2010 the firm claimed the title of Europe’s most innovative company by EBA and won three consecutive NASA aviation Challenges.
