NAL's RTA-90 Takes Flight: India's First Homegrown Regional Aircraft Nears Reality

India is gearing up to take a significant leap in the aviation industry with the National Aerospace Laboratories' (NAL) ambitious Regional Transport Aircraft (RTA) program. The conceptual design of the RTA-90 is nearing completion, and the Project Definition Phase (PDP) is well underway, setting the stage for India's first homegrown regional aircraft.

Civil Aviation Minister KR Naidu has reaffirmed the government's strong support for indigenous aircraft manufacturing. The development of the RTA is a key part of this self-reliance initiative. NAL estimates the project will require an investment of approximately $2 billion and is likely to be executed through a special-purpose vehicle (SPV) to ensure efficient management.

Collaboration is at the heart of this ambitious endeavor. NAL will lead the design and development efforts, while Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will contribute its expertise in engine and avionics production. The program may also involve sourcing components from Western manufacturers, ensuring access to cutting-edge technology.

The RTA program is expected to follow a phased approach, starting with a propeller-powered variant before moving on to a jet-powered version. This strategic approach allows for a more manageable development process and the opportunity to accumulate valuable experience.

Manufacturing the RTA will primarily take place in India, with HAL and private sector companies playing a crucial role. India's growing pool of private sector companies, already supplying components to major aircraft manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus, will be instrumental in ensuring efficient production.

The RTA program is a pivotal moment for Indian aviation. The successful development and production of this aircraft will significantly boost India's self-reliance in the aerospace sector. The RTA also holds the potential to create significant economic opportunities, catering to the growing demand for regional air travel within India and potentially becoming a competitive export product. The RTA-90 is not just an aircraft; it's a symbol of India's ambition and technological prowess in the aviation industry.

 

[Sangram]

NAL 😂 What happened to saras

 

[abhinav srivastava]

We need to develop both cargo and passenger planes. Funding and demand is not an issue, quality and cost-effectiveness are.

 

[NSR]

Great to know but India must use reputed engines from an international manufacturer for it to succeed and get exported to other countries.
Without that whole program will be doomed from the beginning.

 

[Sandeep]

NAL 😂 What happened to saras

They are developing Sara’s MK2 which allows it to travel over 30000ft feet in a pressurised fuselage which Sara’s 1 couldn’t do and had very limited use.

Now with Saras MK2 it can be useful for private people or companies to own their own jet and travel within India, airline companies to fly to different cities or within a state, used as a VIP jet, used as a private air ambulance etc. So there is a lot of potential in developing it but once they have done that then they can manufacture it under the private sector who can deliver on the quality, reliability, time and price which will be much cheaper than any foreign planes.

 

[Mango_Indian]

I remember reading and seeing “pictures” that NAL will make a MTA ( Medium Transport Aircraft) with both turbo prop and turbofan ( jet) engines when I graduated engineering college….in 10+ years, the colors of the “pictures” have changed.