HAL’s Advanced Light Helicopter Chosen for ONGC Offshore Missions

By R Anil Kumar

• HAL’s Advanced Light Helicopters to Join Offshore Missions of ONGC

• The Indigenous advanced light helicopter (ALH), manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL), has been chosen to undertake offshore missions for Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), beating several foreign competitors

• The civil ALH will be operated by Pawan Hans Ltd, which will initially place an order for 10, with the total requirement expected to cross 28 in the coming years

• Work is currently in process to ensure all civil certifications required for the helicopters to be operated by Pawan Hans

• The helicopter is expected to be ready by the middle of next year

• The order will open up a new civilian market for HAL. Total contract size for 10 ALH is estimated to be Rs 1000-1200 core

Bengaluru, September 30. The Indigenous advanced light helicopter (ALH), manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL), has been chosen to undertake offshore missions for Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), beating several foreign competitors for the requirement to fly out personnel and equipment to oil rigs in the open seas.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to enhance its operational capabilities by supplying advanced light helicopters for offshore missions conducted by the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC).

This initiative marks a significant milestone for HAL, as it opens up a new civilian market for their helicopter offerings.

The initial order will consist of 10 helicopters, with expectations that the total requirement could exceed 28 units. These helicopters will be operated by Pawan Hans Limited, which is a key player in the aviation sector in India.

The order will open up a new civilian market for HAL. Total contract size for 10 ALH is estimated to be Rs 1000-1200 core.

HAL has already entered into the civil market with Hindustan-228 passenger aircrafts, a civil version of Dornier aircrafts. With govt focus on increasing remote regional connectivity under the regional connectivity scheme (UDAN), it is believed that HAL has sizable opportunity in civil passenger aircrafts segment also in the coming years.

This deployment is part of HAL’s broader strategy to expand its footprint in the civilian aviation market, leveraging its expertise in helicopter manufacturing.

The helicopters will be operated by Pawan Hans Limited, a state-owned helicopter service provider, which will manage their deployment for offshore operations.

This acquisition marks a significant milestone for HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited), as it underscores the growing reliance on indigenous technology in critical sectors like oil and gas.

This Contract represents a significant expansion of the ALH’s role in the civilian sector. Currently over 340 ALH’s are in service with the Indian Armed Forces, performing a wide range of missions from naval operations to high-altitude deployments.

The ALH is recognized for its versatility and capability in various operational roles, including search and rescue, medical evacuation, and logistical support in challenging offshore environments.

This move is part of ONGC’s broader strategy to enhance safety and operational efficiency in its offshore activities, reflecting a commitment to leveraging advanced technology for improved service delivery.

Sources indicate that Pawan Hans bid featuring the ALH was selected for being both technically compliant and most cost-effective solution.

This decision is said to have surprised several major international helicopter suppliers who have traditionally dominated the offshore aviation market.

It is also said that Defence Secretary Girish Aramane played a key role in advocating for the ALH platform.

To meet the specific requirements of Civilian off-shore operations, HAL is currently working to obtain the necessary certifications from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). While the ALH’s airframe is already certified, the engine will now be manufactured under DGCA supervision.

Although the ALH is already utilised by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard for maritime missions, including operations from warships in challenging sea conditions, offshore operations for the oil and gas industry necessitate specific Civil Certifications and DGCA approvals.

Additionally, the helicopters will be equipped with a new glass cock-pit and these modifications are expected to be completed by mid of next year.

The successful foray into the civilian offshore market is expected to open up significant opportunities for the ALH. The potential future customers include state governments, the National Disaster Relief Force and the companies involved in high-altitude tourism.

This contract reinforces India’s growing self-reliance in the aerospace sector and highlights the capabilities of HAL in designing and manufacturing the advanced helicopters to meet diverse operational requirements.

With nearly 350 ALH’s already produced, HAL is also currently in negotiations with Indian Army for an additional 50 units.