File photo of a Pawan Hans chopper
State-run Pawan Hans Limited (PHL) plans to acquire two seaplanes and 20 helicopters in the current fiscal as part of its expansion plans, the company said today.
PHL, in which government holds 51 per cent stake and the rest are with the oil PSU, Oil & Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), has also said it is looking at setting up maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) business as well under the 'Make in India' programme.
"PHL is preparing a business plan keeping in view the industry trends, future challenges and growth opportunities in the domestic aviation space including in helicopters, seaplanes, small fixed wing aircraft segment as well as development of heliports and MRO facilities under 'Make in India' initiatives," Pawan Hans Limited said in a release.
The company said it was keeping the option open for the planned acquisition of two seaplanes and 20 new helicopters in various categories--light, medium and heavy, adding, it could be through the out-right purchase or by way of leasing.
The proposed acquisition is aimed at meeting new business requirements and replacement of old helicopters in the fleet, it said.
Pawan Hans has its own fleet of 46 helicopters, all owned comprising 35 Dauphin, eight Bell and three MI-172 helicopters, besides seven Dhruv (ALH) helicopters.
The company said its plan to get listed on the bourses are moving in right direction adding, prospects for IPO (initial public offering) are reviewed with SBICap and work plan for the same is being prepared in a time-bound manner.
Pawan Hans expects its first heliport, which is coming up at Rohini in North Delhi, to be completed by February next year and the efforts are on to complete the project within stipulated timeline, the release said.