Current Affairs - Technology - Discussion

HAL Airport in Bengaluru became the first airport in India to operationalise a satellite-guided helicopter approach procedure on August 7, 2026. The procedure uses Required Navigation Performance Category H (RNP CAT H), a specialised satellite-based navigation system designed specifically for helicopters. Developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), it was validated by HAL test pilots and approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The system reduces helicopter approach time from around 12 minutes to approximately 4 minutes and enables accurate flight paths around terrain and urban obstacles. It is particularly useful for air ambulance and search-and-rescue operations.