HAL Eyes ATO for Do-228/Hindustan-228 Pilot Training

India’s state-owned airframer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) recently issued a Request for Information (RFI) and invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) from Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Approved Training Organizations (ATO) to establish pilot training facilities for its license-built Dornier Do-228 and Hindustan-228 aircraft.

As per India’s Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR), the establishment of an ATO for training of flight crew is a mandatory requirement. The airframer said it intends to collaborate with an ATO to obtain approval for Do-228 and Hindustan-228 pilot training.

HAL is eyeing the sale or lease of Hindustan-228 aircraft for civil operations to prospective operators in India and abroad. HAL received DGCA approval in February 2023, for the Hindustan-228 regional transport aircraft which could carry 19 passengers. The Indian regional airline, Alliance Air, presently operates two Hindustan-228 aircraft on lease.

As per the RFI, the selected ATO will undertake the full gamut of activities towards establishment of an Approved Training Organization and provide pilot training on the type. This will also include approval of the simulator to be used and engaging of personnel for its operation.

The HAL Do-228-201/ Hindustan-228 has a crew of two and can accommodate a maximum of 19 passengers. HAL has been manufacturing the Do-228 under license from the now defunct German aviation firm Dornier at its Transport Aircraft Division in Kanpur since the mid-eighties.