Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh recently inaugurated the production version of India’s first indigenous all-composite pilot trainer aircraft, the Hansa-3(NG), developed by CSIR National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) in partnership with Pioneer Clean Amps, which is setting up a 150 crore facility in Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh to produce up to 100 aircraft annually. This initiative is part of India’s broader strategy to meet the projected demand for 30,000 pilots over the next 15 to 20 years, aiming to reduce dependence on imported training aircraft and foster local aviation entrepreneurship. Additionally, the launch event highlighted the advances in the SARAS Mk-2 Light Transport Aircraft, designed for both civilian and military roles, which features significant technological enhancements such as a pressurized cabin and digital avionics. The establishment of the Iron Bird Facility will facilitate extensive ground testing and validation for the SARAS Mk-2, underpinning a commitment to reliable and safe aviation solutions. These developments underscore India’s focus on self-reliance in aviation technology, reinforcing its position as an emerging player in domestic aircraft manufacturing and enhancing short-haul regional connectivity.