(a) whether it is a fact that the indigenously built India’s first Multi-Role Light Transport Aircraft “SARAS†had been successfully test flighted
(b) if so, the details thereof ;
(c) whether the Government have decided to commence commercial production of this Aircraft ;
(d) if so, the details thereof ;
(e) whether any decision has been taken by the Government to induct the Aircraft into Indian airforce ; and
(f) if so, the details in this regard ?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (BACHI SINGH RAWAT)
(a)&(b) : Yes Sir, the first prototype of the indigenously built India’s first multi-role LightTransport Aircraft “SARAS†was rolled out on 4th February, 2003. Various system tests are being completed for the test flight.
(c)&(d) : Commercial production of the aircraft will commence after the Director General of Civil Aviation fully certifies the airworthiness of the aircraft and awards the Type Certificate to the aircraft.
(e)&(f) : The Indian Airforce has shown interest in “SARAS†aircraft for their training and other requirements.