PinS is a satellite-navigation system facilitating safe helicopter landings at heliports, even in the absence of conventional instrument landing systems or ground navigation aids.
This technology empowers pilots to execute precise instrument approaches, particularly in adverse weather conditions such as fog, rain, or low visibility. It proves especially beneficial for heliports situated in remote or hard-to-reach locations.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation is thrilled to announce a pivotal achievement in India’s aviation sector with the endorsement of the nation’s first Private Point-in-Space (PinS) Instrument Approach Procedure for helicopter operations at Undavalli Heliport.
Developed by the Airports…
— PIB India (@PIB_India) July 2, 2026
The department indicated that the new system was created by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and received approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
As per the ministry, the procedure was crafted in accordance with DGCA guidelines and the standards set forth by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Undavalli Heliport is now the first private heliport in India to obtain approval for this cutting-edge instrument approach procedure. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu remarked that this approval signifies the dawn of a new era for helicopter operations in India.
“I truly appreciate the collaborative efforts of all involved agencies, including the Airports Authority of India, DGCA, and the Andhra Pradesh state government, in reaching this historic milestone. Our primary focus is on embracing modern technologies to enhance the reliability and accessibility of helicopter operations across the nation,” he stated.
Naidu also emphasized that the initial phase of this year’s Char Dham helicopter operations was completed without incidents, backed by an enhanced technological framework. “We are committed to establishing a technology-driven, globally benchmarked helicopter ecosystem in India,” he added.
He further mentioned that just a week prior, India successfully performed its first commercial aircraft landing utilizing the indigenous GAGAN satellite navigation system. The approval of the initial PinS procedure for helicopters stands as another significant achievement in this direction.
GAGAN (GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation) is India’s own satellite navigation system, developed collaboratively by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and ISRO. The government aims to lessen dependency on traditional ground-based navigation systems, shifting towards satellite-based technology.
