Latest ALH events
The Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) is a highly versatile and efficient aircraft that has served as a stalwart workhorse for the Indian armed forces for several decades. However, in March of this year, concerns arose following two successive crashes of coast guard and naval variants of the ALH, leading to questions surrounding the safety and reliability of the fleet.
As a result, a comprehensive review of the entire ALH fleet was conducted, which not only includes those in service with indian armed forces, but also in pipeline. The review aimed to identify any deep-rooted issues that may have contributed to the accidents, with a view to improving the safety and performance of the fleet.
All clear for ALH
After thorough checks, it was determined that there were no underlying problems with the aircraft, and the fleet was cleared to resume flying operations. This is a testament to the ALH’s strong design and advanced technology, which have allowed it to operate reliably across diverse environments ranging from warships to high-altitude regions such as the Siachen glacier.
Root Cause Analysis
Investigations into the accidents revealed that both were related to control failure. This analysis revealed that the failures were maintenance-related, with one incident being attributed to the improper fitment of washers, and the other involving the interchange of two similar rods during maintenance.
In response to these findings, additional training has been implemented for ALH crews to ensure that any maintenance-related errors are minimized, and that the aircraft can continue to operate safely and efficiently. This highlights the Indian armed forces’ dedication to continuous improvement and their unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational readiness.
It is worth noting that the ALH is a state-of-the-art aircraft designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a leading aerospace company in India. The helicopter is equipped with advanced avionics, a modern glass cockpit, and a range of mission equipment, which make it suitable for a wide range of military and civilian applications.
Moreover, in addition to its use by the Indian armed forces, the ALH has been exported to several countries, including Nepal, Mauritius, and the Maldives. This underscores the helicopter’s potential for future export orders, while also demonstrating its versatility, reliability, and potential as a key driver of India’s aerospace industry.
Overall, the resumption of flying operations for the ALH fleet represents a significant milestone for India’s military and aerospace industry. With ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and reliability of the fleet, the ALH is expected to continue serving as a key asset for the Indian armed forces and other customers for many years to come.