Indian HAL Sees Domestic Market for Russian-Built Regional Jets

(MENAFN) India’s state-owned aerospace firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is forecasting substantial demand for Russian-made Sukhoi passenger aircraft as the country expands its regional air travel network, according to statements from the company’s leadership.

HAL has formed a joint venture with Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation to produce the SJ-100 Superjet, an aircraft designed to carry just over 100 passengers. The agreement was finalized alongside a major aviation exhibition held in Hyderabad earlier this week. The SJ-100 is positioned as a regional jet with seating capacity for 103 travelers.

Company officials said the program could help Indian airlines address persistent delivery delays from major international aircraft manufacturers. HAL Chairman and Managing Director D. K. Sunil said the aircraft aligns closely with India’s push to improve air connectivity to smaller cities and regional hubs.

“We see a good market of upwards of 200 aircraft for this size of India and you know in the local region,” he said, referring to the government-backed regional connectivity initiative.

Sunil outlined a phased production plan, explaining that assembly would initially rely on imported components before transitioning toward greater local capability. “In three years we will do the roll-out in a semi knock-down condition. Bring all the assemblies, assemble it. That is the target in three years. So, bring in all the facilities, bring in the test equipment and get it going,” he added.

Under the arrangement, the Russian side will supply technical expertise, engineering services, and specialist support to upgrade HAL’s production infrastructure for the new aircraft line.

Sunil also indicated that HAL is considering leasing aircraft to airlines as an interim solution before full-scale manufacturing begins at its domestic facilities, according to reports familiar with the discussions.

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