Saras Mk2 Test Flight: The updated Indian-designed civilian aircraft, Saras Mk2, is scheduled for test flights in December 2027.
Development & Purpose: Developed by CSIR-NAL, it’s a 19-seater light transport aircraft intended for passenger transport to Tier-2/Tier-3 cities, medical emergencies, and disaster relief.
IAF Interest: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has shown interest in potentially purchasing at least 15 aircraft, pending successful flight tests and airworthiness certification.
Specifications: It’s a 7.5-ton aircraft with a 6-hour endurance, a service ceiling of 29,000 ft, a maximum range of 775 km with 19 passengers and 2450 km with 7 passengers, powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67A turboprop engines.
Manufacturing: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will be involved in manufacturing. Wings and composites will be made in-house, metallic parts will be outsourced.
Prototypes: Two Mk2 prototypes will be built to expedite the certification process.
Avionics: Avionics will be sourced from Genesis, with reliance on NAL’s in-house computer for several systems.
Delays: Project delays are attributed to regulatory processes, manufacturing requirements, and the availability of certified pilots. It was originally planned for 2026.
Legacy: The original 14-seater Saras (PT1N) is being used as a testbed for future planes, it was showcased at Aero India 2019.
