New Delhi, Aug 11 (UNI) The Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA) has accorded flight clearance to the indigenously-manufactured Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas from the Nashik division of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), marking a significant milestone in de-centralising aircraft production and expanding India’s strategic aerospace capabilities.
The Flight Clearance Document was handed over to Executive Director, HAL Nashik Division by ADG, AQA.
Nashik, renowned for its legacy in manufacturing and sustaining fighter fleets, has now evolved into a key hub for indigenous aircraft production.
Hosting the third LCA production line outside Bengaluru, this de-centralised set-up enhances operational flexibility and aligns with India’s broader defence preparedness and strategic autonomy goals.
OADG Nashik played a pivotal role in the successful absorption of Transfer of Technology for LCA manufacturing. The office led the redesign and modification of tools and fixtures, transformed legacy work centres, and facilitated a cultural & technical shift in aerospace philosophies.
Upholding stringent quality assurance standards, the team ensured the production of over 5,000 high-precision components, in-house loom manufacturing, Line Replacement Units testing, and exhaustive pre-installation and assembly checks.
Round-the-clock support was extended to mission-critical operations including Right-First-Time ground runs, snag rectification, and final system readiness, culminating in the successful flight clearance.