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Let us say empty weight is 4600kg. Assuming the plane has fuel capacity of 1200kg and useful load capacity of 1600kg, we are looking at 4600+2800 = 7400 kg gross weight. Since the engines can provide more thrust than needed, the higher weight is not a problem. So it is only a question of...

NAL has not been forthcoming with information. So the best guess is that the plane is not able to achieve design parameters.

The plane with 14 pax (1600 kg load) has only 500km range. I think this plane is not suitable for maritime recon as such plane requires higher range with similar payload. The empty weight is too high compared to gross weight.

The weight problem may be related to general technological issues (alloys, fabrication issues etc.). Aircraft manufacturing is a complex business. It requires significant research and manufacturing infrastructure. Even a simple plane like Saras proves to be difficult as a lot of manufacturing...

The other issues with Saras could be that Dornier may be cheaper and more economical to run. I think the focus on Saras is lost and it is one of those projects that we can now call "competence building" for setting up local aviation industry.

The Saras aircraft was battling with weight problems. According to internet, the first prototype was one ton overweight. Second prototype (crashed) was 400kg less than first. The third prototype is supposed to be 500 kg less. What I could not find is if that is compared to first or second. The...

What is the problem with Saras. The PT1 is modified. PT3 is manufactured as per last year news. Why is it not flying?

I think Dornier is modified for various roles in Indian service. For example maritime versions are fitted with surface search radars. However Saras may be a better aircraft compared to Dornier. We hope NAL completes the certification ASAP and get the plane cleared for manufacturing.

Just found out that Saras is built by Taneja Aerospace (TAAL) as per design provided by NAL. Good to know that at least one aviation project has a private company as designated production agency. The problem with Saras is that the product it is trying to replace - Dornier , is a very...