Pawan Hans to buy 14 copters

Our Bureau

NEW DELHI, Dec. 21

PAWAN Hans Helicopters Ltd proposes to acquire four light and 10 medium capacity helicopters during the Tenth Plan period, the Minister for Civil Aviation, Mr Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, has said.

Addressing members of the Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Minister said that financing for the new acquisition would be made from internal resources. He also indicated that Pawan Hans would consider disposing of eight medium capacity helicopters in case they cannot be deployed for onshore operations.

PHHL is also acquiring two medium capacity helicopters for which orders have been placed. Mr Hussain said techno-economic evaluation was under way for the company acquiring two light helicopter technical bids.

PPHL is said to be considering the 11-seater Dauphin helicopters for the medium capacity variety and the six-seater Bell 407 helicopter for the light version.

Participating in the discussions, members emphasised that there is huge potential for expanding helicopter services to far- flung and tourist destinations.