The government has approved India’s inaugural private Point-in-Space (PinS) Instrument Approach Procedure for helicopter operations at Undavalli Heliport. PinS procedures utilize advanced satellite-based navigation technology to facilitate safe and precise instrument approaches for helicopters at heliports lacking traditional instrument landing infrastructure. This innovation is especially valuable in adverse weather conditions and regions without ground-based navigation aids.
Developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and sanctioned by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the PinS procedure complies with DGCA regulations and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices. Minister for Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu, lauded the collaborative efforts of various agencies, including AAI, DGCA, and the Andhra Pradesh state government, in achieving this significant milestone.
Minister Naidu emphasized the government’s commitment to leveraging modern technologies to enhance the reliability and accessibility of helicopter operations nationwide. The successful completion of the initial phase of this year’s Char Dham helicopter operations, supported by upgraded technological infrastructure, underscores this dedication. The government aims to establish a technology-driven and globally competitive helicopter ecosystem in India.
The introduction of India’s maiden PinS Instrument Approach Procedure signifies a crucial advancement in this endeavor. It aligns with the government’s vision of modernizing aviation infrastructure through Performance-Based Navigation (PBN), promoting indigenous satellite-based navigation technologies, and harmonizing India’s aviation sector with international standards. This approval is anticipated to pave the way for the implementation of similar PinS procedures across the country, benefiting various sectors such as emergency medical services, disaster relief operations, tourism, offshore activities, pilgrimage services, corporate aviation, and regional connectivity.
