India Investigates Saras Prototype Crash

Graham Warwick graham_warwick@aviationweek.com

The second prototype of India's indigenously designed Saras 14-seat twin-turboprop crashed near Bangalore on March 6 during a test flight, killing all three crewmembers.

The flight data recorder has been recovered from the crashed prototype.

The Saras has been criticized for being overweight, over budget and behind schedule, but according to Indian media its developer, the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), expects the project to continue despite the crash.

NAL is proposing to design and develop a 70- to 90-seat regional airliner jointly with Hindustan Aeronautics, India's state-owned military aircraft manufacturer. But late last year the government's Comptroller and Auditor General urged a review of the project, citing the difficulties with the Saras.

The pusher-propeller Saras first flew in May 2004, but the first prototype exceeded its empty weight target by almost 25% (990 kg.). This led to the original 850-shp. Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A turboprops being replaced by 1,200-shp. versions on the lighter second prototype, which first flew in April 2007.

NAL was aiming for Indian certification of the Saras this year. It is building a production-standard third prototype, targeting a 500-kg. weight reduction, but this is not expected to fly before year-end, pushing certification into 2010. The only identified customers so far are the Indian Air Force and Navy.

Photo credit: National Aerospace Laboratories