Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): The process to purchase a modern state helicopter has almost reached its final stage. Three companies, including from France and Italy and one national company participated in the bidding process initiated by the aviation department. The technical and financial bids of the companies have been opened and examined. Now, the matter will be taken up at a high-power committee which will select one of the three companies to supply the state chopper and thereafter Cabinet approval will be sought. The estimated cost of the helicopter is approximately Rs 125 crores.
An officer of the aviation department told Free Press that three companies – AirBus (France), Leonardo S.p.A (Italy) and domestic company HAL have participated in the bidding. The technical committee of the directorate of aviation department has analysed the technical bids of all three bidders and given its report to the aviation department. The committee assessed the features and facilities of the choppers offered by the three companies to ensure they meet the state government’s requirements.
State’s Eurocopter
People in the know of the matter said the state government currently owns ‘Eurocopter’ EC 155 helicopter, which is almost 12-13 years old. It was bought from France-based Air Bus Company. A lot of money is spent on its maintenance and therefore, a need was felt to buy a new helicopter with modern facilities.
Desired Features
The government is looking for a chopper which can accommodate 8 to 10 passengers, (including two VIPs seats and all other normal seats) in the main cabin, along with two pilots. The chopper should be equipped with instruments compatible with VFR and IFR and must be capable of flying day and night CAT A O Operations. Under the performance category, the government wants a helicopter capable of flying 300 NM (including mandatory reserves) with full payload without requiring refueling.
“We are almost in the final stage to buy a new modern helicopter. After getting the due approval from the Cabinet, a work order will be issued.” Said Chandramauli Shukla, Commissioner, Aviation Dept
