Aerospace

HAL, France’s Safran ink deal to develop helicopter engines.

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According to the source on Friday saw the signing of a new joint venture agreement between France’s Safran Helicopter Engines and state-run aircraft manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), according to a statement from HAL. In the presence of Safran Group CEO Olivier Andriès, it was signed by Safran Helicopter Engines CEO Franck Saudo and HAL Chairman R Madhavan.

In order to meet the needs of future helicopters being developed by HAL and the defence department, including the 13-ton IMRH (Indian Multi-Role Helicopter), the new aero-engine company in India will be focused on the development, production, sales, and support of helicopter engines, according to HAL.

In both Indian and international markets, IMRH is anticipated to compete with Russian Mi-17 helicopters. According to HAL officials, the platform might have a sizable market given that approximately 40 air forces throughout the world have helicopters similar to the Mi-17.IMRH will be able to perform a wide range of tasks, including as transporting troops, leading assault operations, performing air maintenance, and anti-submarine warfare.

For several decades, Safran Helicopter Engines has been a valued partner. We now eagerly anticipate taking advantage of this chance to draw on HAL’s expertise in producing more than 15 different types of aircraft and helicopter engines to jointly co-develop and manufacture engines with a focus on IMRH and its naval variant, the deck-based MRH, as soon as possible, said Madhavan.

According to a HAL statement, HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines already work together on a number of projects, including the Shakti engine that powers several HAL-built helicopters, including the Dhruv, Rudra, and the light combat helicopter.

On July 5, a high-level delegation of Safran Group had met defence minister Rajnath Singh and briefed him on the firm’s upcoming projects in the country including the setting up of a maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility in Hyderabad.

Aerospace

EASA Ends Suspension on PIA, Approves Flights to Europe

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The suspension of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) from operating in Europe is finally over, marking a significant turning point for Pakistan’s aviation sector.

After years of scrutiny and stringent safety assessments, the European Commission and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have officially lifted the ban on PIA. This decision also grants Airblue authorization to operate flights to Europe, further enhancing Pakistan’s connectivity with the region.

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PIA’s suspension, initially imposed in June 2020, was a direct consequence of concerns regarding the oversight capabilities of Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). These concerns were triggered shortly after a tragic PIA plane crash that claimed 97 lives, prompting an investigation into the validity of pilot licenses issued in the country.

Now, after four years of continuous efforts and reforms by the PCAA, EASA has expressed renewed confidence in Pakistan’s aviation regulatory framework. In a statement, EASA highlighted that Pakistan has successfully addressed safety compliance issues, enabling PIA to resume its operations within the European Union.

A spokesperson for PIA expressed optimism, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to strictly adhere to EASA’s regulations and guidelines. “This milestone has been achieved after four years of relentless efforts by the PIA management,” the spokesperson said.

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The lifting of the ban is expected to have a profound impact on PIA’s future. The airline, which employs over 7,000 people, has faced criticism in the past for poor management, financial instability, and regulatory challenges.

However, the restoration of European operations is seen as a vital step toward regaining its competitive edge, improving its financial standing, and restoring its reputation on the global stage.

Pakistan’s government, which has been exploring options to privatize the debt-laden national carrier, is hopeful that this development will attract foreign investment and bolster the country’s aviation industry.

With a renewed focus on compliance and safety, PIA is now poised to rebuild its presence in Europe, offering Pakistani travelers and international passengers more connectivity and improved service.