From Our Correspondent
Amaravati: The Centre has approved a proposal to establish a modern heliport at Undavalli near Amaravati, marking a significant step towards improving helicopter connectivity in Andhra Pradesh. The heliport will be the first private heliport in India to operate using a satellite-based Point-in-Space (PinS) Instrument Approach Procedure, allowing helicopters to land safely even in poor weather conditions.
The proposal, submitted by the Andhra Pradesh Airports Development Corporation Limited (APADCL), has received approval from the Central Government. The technology has been developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and has also received clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Safer landings in all weather
Unlike conventional helipads, the new facility will use GPS-based satellite navigation to guide helicopters during landing.
This means pilots will be able to land safely even during fog, low visibility, rain or at night, without depending on ground-based navigation equipment or visual guidance from ground personnel.
The helicopter’s onboard navigation system will identify the exact landing point using GPS signals, making operations safer and more efficient.
More than a regular helipad
The proposed Undavalli facility will be developed as a full-fledged heliport, rather than a simple helipad.
According to the proposal, the heliport will include:
- Parking bays for at least four helicopters
- A secure boundary wall around the facility
- A passenger terminal similar to those found at airports, though on a smaller scale
- Modern operational infrastructure for helicopter services
The project is estimated to cost around ₹5 crore.
Part of a larger plan
The Andhra Pradesh government plans to develop heliports in every district as part of its efforts to improve regional air connectivity.
The Undavalli heliport is expected to become a model for future heliport development in the state because of its advanced satellite-based navigation system.
Officials believe the project will improve connectivity to Amaravati, facilitate faster movement of government officials, business travellers, emergency medical services and tourists, and support the state’s growing aviation infrastructure.
With the adoption of the PinS approach, Andhra Pradesh is also expected to become one of the first states in India to deploy next-generation satellite navigation technology for routine helicopter operations.