SOURCE: AFI
In what could mark a significant leap forward for regional aviation in India, a team of researchers from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has unveiled the D-12 Salamander, securing the third prize at the prestigious Indian Light Aircraft Design (ILAD) 2024 competition. This innovative aircraft design promises to enhance air connectivity across the nation, particularly under the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) initiative.
Developed by Prasenjit Das from IISER Mohali and Prof. Prodyut Das from IIT Kanpur, the D-12 is tailored for regional air travel. The aircraft is designed to seat 20 passengers but can be economically and efficiently stretched to accommodate up to 40 without the need for further certification. This modularity is a key feature, offering airlines a flexible solution to match demand while keeping costs down.
Developed by Prasenjit Das from IISER Mohali and Prof. Prodyut Das from IIT Kanpur, the D-12 is tailored for regional air travel. The aircraft is designed to seat 20 passengers but can be economically and efficiently stretched to accommodate up to 40 without the need for further certification. This modularity is a key feature, offering airlines a flexible solution to match demand while keeping costs down.
The D-12 Salamander is powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6A-42a engines, known for their reliability and efficiency, which are crucial for operations in diverse Indian terrains. The aircraft’s design has been meticulously engineered to address stability, weight distribution, and stress endurance, ensuring safety and performance.
The simulation model, which was highlighted at ILAD 2024, showcased the D-12’s aerodynamic efficiency, with detailed renderings revealing the thoughtful integration of textures and normalness maps for a realistic depiction. This focus on simulation and modeling has been pivotal in refining the aircraft’s design to meet stringent aviation standards.
The D-12’s introduction could be a game-changer for India’s regional aviation landscape. With the UDAN initiative aiming to connect smaller and remote cities, the D-12 offers a practical solution by making air travel more accessible and affordable. Its ability to operate on shorter runways typical of smaller airports will open up numerous routes that were previously unfeasible or uneconomical for larger aircraft.
The accolades received at ILAD 2024 are not just a testament to the ingenuity behind the D-12 but also signal potential support from both governmental bodies and private investors interested in sustainable aviation solutions. The D-12, with its scalable design, could encourage the growth of local aerospace manufacturing, fostering innovation and employment in the sector.