Modified IJT commences spin flight testing

On 23 November, 2020, a modified HAL HJT-36 ( Sitara) Intermediate Jet Trainer (IJT) designed and developed by HAL to replace the HJT-16 Kiran basic jet trainers of the IAF commenced spin flight testing in Bengaluru. The flight was piloted by HAL’s test pilots Gp Capt HV Thakur (Retd) and Wg Cdr P Avasti (Retd). Spin testing of an aircraft is a crucial phase of flight testing, which will be gradually progressed to assess behaviour of the aircraft till six turn spins to either side to meet the targeted requirement. The test aircraft have been fitted with necessary safety devices (Anti-Spin Parachute Systems).