Date:07/01/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/01/07/stories/2006010720740300.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

HAL stresses on safety features of Dhruv

Special Correspondent

`It has successfully been flown in the most demanding conditions'

Bangalore: Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. said here on Friday that the indigenously designed and developed advanced light helicopter Dhruv had undergone stringent qualification tests and successfully flown in the most demanding conditions from extremely high altitude in the Himalayas to hot and humid environment over oceans.

During the certification phase, the helicopter had flown 2,000 hours to meet the exacting standards laid down by agencies like the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.

Snag

In a recent incident when the tail rotor of one Dhruv developed some technical snag near Hyderabad, the pilot executed a safe landing without any injury to any of the passengers, HAL officials said.

"The incident undoubtedly proved the safety features of the helicopter, including crash worthiness and ease of handling in emergency procedures. It also proved beyond doubt that the design characteristics were unique as the crew and passengers descended from 5,000 feet and came out of the helicopter without a scratch. There was no fuel leak, fire or any other untoward occurrence'' they pointed out. The Dhruv tail rotor blade is of "very sound design" and had been extensively tested, they said.