March 04, 2013: After the tragic crash of its second prototype in March 2009, in which the three-member IAF test crew was killed, the NAL Saras light transport aircraft, is expected to take to the air again this month. The first prototype has been suitably modified (now designated PT1N) and is likely to make a flight by the end of March. The modifications to the first prototype include changes to the rear fuselage, increased area rudder, modified stub wings, new engine nacelles and a crucial autopilot. The delayed third prototype with weight optimisation and increased use of composites will complete fabrication for a first flight before March 2014, according to current timelines.

In April 2010, the DGCA had published an accident report that blamed multiple agencies, including NAL, the IAF's Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment, and even US firm Pratt & Whitney, which supplied the aircraft's turboprop engines. For NAL, the resumption of flight test will be an emotional time. The establishment was thrown into gloom following the March 2009 crash and the programme has remained on ground ever since, with confidence taking its time to build within the agency. Now also saddled with the National Civil Aircraft Development (NCAD) programme, NAL has its hands full. The agency has proven its abilities by branching out into partnerships with Mahindra on the NM5 and developing mini-UAVs, but the IAF will be looking keenly now at the Saras flight test programme as it resumes.