New Delhi: India’s regional aviation landscape is set for a significant upgrade with plans to locally assemble the Czech-manufactured L-410 NG aircraft, a move expected to strengthen connectivity to remote and underserved regions while boosting domestic manufacturing and technology transfer.
Sakthi Aviation and Defence Systems Pvt Ltd, part of the Sakthi Group, has announced plans to bring the 19-seater twin-engine L-410 NG aircraft to India through a collaboration with Czech aerospace group OMNIPOL. The partnership includes an assessment to establish a final assembly line in India, enabling transfer of technology and deeper integration into the country’s growing aviation ecosystem.
The L-410 NG is a next-generation turboprop aircraft designed specifically for short-haul and regional operations. Its ability to operate from short and unprepared runways makes it particularly suitable for India’s diverse geography, including hilly terrain, island regions, and remote airstrips. This capability aligns closely with the objectives of the UDAN regional connectivity scheme, which aims to improve air access to smaller towns and isolated areas.
The collaboration was formalised through a memorandum of understanding signed by the leadership of both companies and announced during the inaugural session of Wings India 2026. The initiative reflects the government’s broader push to strengthen regional air networks and encourage aircraft manufacturing within the country.
The proposed local assembly of the L-410 NG is expected to offer airlines a cost-effective and operationally efficient platform for point-to-point regional routes. With lower operating costs and flexible deployment, the aircraft is seen as well suited for expanding regional services while keeping fares affordable.
Beyond passenger transport, the L-410 NG is designed as a versatile multirole aircraft. It can be configured for cargo transport and special-purpose missions, enhancing its usefulness for both civilian and strategic applications. Features such as a spacious cabin, higher payload capacity, extended range, and modern avionics support safe and reliable operations even in challenging conditions.
Industry leaders involved in the partnership have highlighted that the aircraft’s adaptability and performance could help unlock new regional routes and bring more communities into India’s aviation network. By combining local assembly with advanced technology and proven design, the initiative is expected to play a meaningful role in accelerating India’s regional connectivity ambitions while supporting the growth of its domestic aerospace sector.
