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NEW DELHI: India has approved its first Point-in-Space (PinS) Instrument Approach Procedure for helicopter operations, marking a major milestone in the country’s adoption of satellite-based aviation navigation. The procedure enables helicopters to operate safely in poor visibility and adverse weather without relying on conventional ground-based navigation aids.
The country’s first PinS procedure has been introduced at Undavalli Heliport in Andhra Pradesh. It was developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).
PinS is a satellite-based navigation procedure that guides helicopters to a predefined point near a heliport before the final landing. It improves flight safety and operational efficiency, particularly in areas where conventional navigation infrastructure is limited or unavailable. The procedure complements India’s growing use of satellite-based navigation capabilities, including the indigenous GAGAN (GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation) system.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation said the new procedure will enhance all-weather helicopter operations and benefit emergency medical services, disaster relief missions, offshore operations, tourism, pilgrimage services, corporate aviation and regional connectivity, especially in remote and strategically important regions.
Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said the approval marks the beginning of a new era for helicopter operations in India and reflects the government’s commitment to building a technology-driven aviation ecosystem. The milestone follows the recent successful demonstration of India’s first GAGAN-enabled precision approach by a commercial aircraft, highlighting the country’s growing adoption of satellite-based navigation technologies.
The government plans to introduce similar PinS procedures at more heliports across the country as part of its broader Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) strategy, strengthening aviation safety while improving helicopter connectivity across India.
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