New Delhi: India has approved its first PinS instrument approach for helicopter operations, marking a major step towards safer and more reliable all-weather flying. The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) cleared the procedure for the Undavalli Heliport.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) developed the procedure in line with DGCA regulations and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
PinS, or Point-in-Space, uses satellite-based navigation technology to guide helicopters safely to heliports without conventional instrument landing systems. As a result, pilots can conduct precise instrument approaches even during poor weather or in areas without ground-based navigation aids.
PinS instrument approach to improve helicopter connectivity
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said the approval marked the beginning of a new phase in India’s helicopter operations. He added that the technology would improve flight safety, operational efficiency and all-weather accessibility.
The minister appreciated the efforts of AAI, DGCA and the Andhra Pradesh government for achieving the milestone. He also said the Centre remains committed to adopting advanced technologies to strengthen helicopter operations across the country.
Furthermore, he highlighted the successful completion of the first phase of this year’s Char Dham helicopter operations with upgraded technology support. He also referred to the recent demonstration of India’s first indigenous GAGAN-based precision approach by a commercial aircraft.
Officials said the approval will help expand similar procedures across India. It will support emergency medical services, disaster response, tourism, offshore operations, pilgrimage services, corporate aviation and regional connectivity.
The ministry said the PinS instrument approach will improve operational reliability, reduce weather-related disruptions and enable safer Instrument Flight Rules operations at remote and strategically important locations. It also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modern aviation infrastructure through Performance-Based Navigation and satellite-based technologies.
