India's National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) plans to alter the design of its third Saras twin-pusher turboprop prototype, pre-production aircraft in a bid to reduce the utility aircraft's weight. The first prototype weighs 5,120kg (11,300lb), 25% more than its design weight of 4,125kg. Reaching this will enable the 14-seat passenger version to be certificated under FAR 25.
The weight-reduction programme may include increased use of lightweight materials. Sources close to the programme say design changes could require modifications to NAL's manufacturing facilities.
Source: Flight International
