Indigenously designed and developed ‘Dhruv’ of HAL is an excellent performer in multi-mission-multi-role operations which has proved its worth to all the operators in military & civil sector. The Dhruv has undergone extensive trials during the design & development phase in most demanding conditions from extremely high altitude in the Himalayas down to hot and humid environment over the seas. Stringent qualification tests were successfully undertaken with maximum load and maneuvering limits to obtain full certification by CEMILAC and DGCA. A total of 2000 hours was flown during the flight certification phase to meet the exacting standards laid down by CEMILAC and DGCA.  

     Indian Armed Forces – known for their stringent requirements & operations over most hostile terrain have expressed great satisfaction with ALH and its superlative performance. The customers have enormous confidence on Dhruv and it is amply demonstrated by Indian Air Force by its formation of SARANG display team.  

     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. The incident undoubtedly proved the safety features of ALH including crash worthiness & ease of handling emergency procedures. It was also proved beyond doubt that the design characteristics of ALH are unique as the crew and passengers descended from 5000 ft and came out of the helicopter without a scratch. There was no fuel leak, fire or any other untoward occurrence. 

     As is well known in the aeronautical world, tail rotors of several new entrants in the world helicopter market, have given initial teething trouble. Several new helicopters from reputed manufacturers have also faced this problem. In fact, new helicopter programmes often get stretched due to these. However, it is to the credit of HAL that not even a minor snag goes unnoticed or unattended. HAL has, therefore, as a prudent action, advised all operators in military & civil to wait for HAL to examine the issue critically before the recommencing flying. The stoppage of flying advised by HAL is only a precautionary measure. Issue of alert notices, preliminary warnings/ checks- as they are called in aviation lexicon- is a positive step towards safety in the sky. 

     ALH tail rotor blade is of very sound design and has been extensively tested. More than 12000 Hrs of flying has been carried out so far by HAL and the users, without any incident / accident. The tail rotor blades of the helicopter involved in the mishap belong to a particular ‘batch of blades’ which are not in service with customers as yet. 

     This effort of HAL is as per the international norms in aeronautical industry. HAL is committed to address each issue – aiming to provide the most efficient & safest machine to its customers – both in India & abroad. Customers, the world over, appreciate this professional approach and do not expect ‘quick fixes’ which may jeopardize safety. 

     HAL’s investigation and examination are expected to be completed shortly. Two Dhruv helicopters are already flying at HAL. Flying by customers will recommence very soon.