HAL Delivers First Batch of Delayed HTT-40 Trainers to Indian Air Force
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to receive its first batch of HTT-40 trainer aircraft from Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) after delays in the programme caused by a shortage of engines. The IAF had ordered 70 HTT-40 aircraft for ₹6,838 crore three years ago to meet its basic pilot training requirements.
HAL was scheduled to deliver 12 aircraft during FY26 but delivered none due to delays in receiving the TPE331-12B turboprop engines from US-based Honeywell. However, Honeywell has since overcome supply-chain bottlenecks and delivered the first batch of engines to HAL.
The HTT-40 is intended to provide basic flying training to IAF pilots before they move to more advanced stages of training. With the induction of HTT-40 aircraft, the IAF will have an indigenous option for basic pilot training and reduce its dependence on imported trainer aircraft.