HAL Delivers First Batch of Delayed HTT-40 Trainer Aircraft to Indian Air Force

Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) is finally set to deliver its first batch of HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force after a three-year delay. The IAF had ordered 70 HTT-40 aircraft for ₹6,838 crore to meet its basic pilot training requirements.

The initial delivery of three aircraft will mark a significant milestone in the programme, which has been plagued by delays due to a shortage of engines. HAL was scheduled to deliver 12 aircraft during FY26 but delivered none due to this issue.

US-based Honeywell has overcome supply-chain bottlenecks and delivered the first batch of TPE331-12B turboprop engines to HAL, paving the way for the initial aircraft deliveries. The HTT-40 is intended to provide basic flying training to IAF pilots before they move to more advanced stages of training.