India has approved its first Private Point-in-Space (PinS) instrument approach procedure for helicopter operations at Undavalli Heliport in Andhra Pradesh, marking an important development in the use of satellite-based navigation technology in the country’s aviation sector.
The procedure was developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). It uses satellite navigation systems to help helicopters make safe and accurate instrument approaches even at heliports that do not have conventional landing infrastructure.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation said the PinS procedure follows DGCA regulations as well as the standards and recommended practices of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The technology is expected to improve helicopter services, especially during poor weather conditions and in remote areas where ground-based navigation facilities are limited.
According to the ministry, the approval could encourage the introduction of similar systems in other parts of the country. It noted that PinS procedures would benefit emergency medical services, disaster response operations, tourism, offshore activities, pilgrimage routes, corporate aviation and regional connectivity by making helicopter travel safer and more dependable.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu called the approval a major milestone, saying it marks the beginning of a new phase for helicopter operations in India. He said the technology would enhance flight safety, operational efficiency and all-weather accessibility.
The minister also appreciated the efforts of the Airports Authority of India, the DGCA and the Andhra Pradesh government in achieving the milestone.
He said the government remains focused on adopting modern technologies to make helicopter services more reliable and accessible across the country.
Naidu further pointed to the successful completion of the first phase of this year’s Char Dham helicopter operations without any incidents, crediting improved technological infrastructure for the achievement.
He added that the government’s long-term goal is to develop a technology-driven helicopter ecosystem in India that meets global standards.