A new variant of the Dornier 228 built by Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) and certified by India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation on February 27 promises several operational benefits for operators and a fresh revenue stream for local lessors. Called the Hindustan 228-201 LW, the variant lowers the maximum takeoff weight of the 19-seat aircraft below 5,700 kilograms, thereby reducing pilot qualification requirements and operating costs.
“The new variant will result in reduced training requirements for flying and ground crew, including aircraft maintenance engineers,” said Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL).
Private Indian aircraft leasing company Vman Aviation Services already has set its sights on lease deals with regional operators for domestic and international markets including Nepal and the Philippines and “maybe even the military,” Vman CEO Vishok Mansingh told AIN.
Vman has signed an MoU with HAL to form a joint venture for a leasing company in which it will hold a majority share of 51 percent. The company has yet to get a name. “The deal will take around six months to close,” said Mansingh.
Vman signed an agreement with HAL at Aero India on February 14 to lease five three-tonne Light Utility Helicopters (LUH) with five options. HAL expects to roll out a civil version in 2025. “India has one of the lowest penetrations of helicopters with limited operations,” said Mansingh. “We believe LUH, with a customer-focused design, will rejuvenate the helicopter market in India. It will be an asset in our portfolio.”
The LUH can carry two pilots and six passengers. “We see major potential for leasing of Advanced Light Helicopters for commercial and oil and gas transport, too,” added Mansingh.
Demand for charter, shuttles, urban air mobility, HEMS, aerial work, search and rescue, and law enforcement vehicles will open a large potential for the machines, he explained.
To further build and strengthen his assets, Mansingh has ordered 10 Pipers and is considering 20 indigenous Hansa New Generation flying trainers designed and developed by CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) for replacement of aging aircraft at flying clubs. “The Hansa NGs are due for certification soon,” he said. “It is a suitable aircraft for CPL with its low cost and low fuel intake.”
Vman bases operations at GIFT (Gujarat International Finance Tec) City. Two years ago, it became the first company from the business district to sign an aircraft purchase agreement for an Airbus H125 helicopter. The government has launched numerous incentives and tax holidays on capital gains on aircraft leasing deals done at GIFT city.