Dhruv Helicopters Issues: HAL Clarifies One-Time Check Ordered As Routine Practice; Working With Army
Manufactured by HAL, the Dhruv ALH has logged over 4.5 lakh flying hours and has been operational for more than two decades. Image courtesy: HAL
After a news report highlighted safety concerns over the safety of Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), aircraft maker Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has informed that it is working closely with the Indian Army to investigate technical glitches. The state-owned defence firm stated that it was a one-time check after a recent incident.
HAL’s clarification on Sunday (September 7, 2025) came in the wake of a Hindustan Times report that claimed the Army had ordered a fleet-wide “One-Time Check” (OTC) following a recent incident. The PSU described the article as “one-sided” and containing “misleading commentary.”
“HAL reiterates that maintenance aspects are critical to the continued airworthiness of helicopters and emphasizes that all maintenance directives must be followed scrupulously,” Hindustan Aeronautics said in a statement.
Dhruv Helicopter: Is the One-Time Check unusual?
According to HAL, the OTC is a standard safety protocol initiated after identifying a defect, this time in the Tail Drive Shaft (TDS) of the helicopter. The company noted that One-Time Check is a routine maintenance practice issued subsequent to a defect, in this case, of the Tail Drive Shaft (TDS).
With this, HAL shared that it is working closely with the Indian Army and has deputed expert teams to ascertain the root cause,
What is the Tail Drive Shaft and why does it matter?
The Tail Drive Shaft transfers engine power to the tail rotor, which counters the torque of the main rotor. Its performance directly affects the directional stability of the helicopter, making it a critical component for safe operation. The recent incident involving an Army Dhruv helicopter occurred last week on Thursday.
Following this, the Directorate General of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (Aviation) reportedly issued urgent safety directives to all ALH units, including those operated by the Air Force and Navy.
Dhruv Helicopter safety track record: How has it been?
The Dhruv helicopter has faced scrutiny over its safety in recent years. According to the Hindustan Times report, the aircraft has been involved in approximately 15 accidents over the past five years. While not directly addressing that statistic, HAL emphasized the importance of adhering to maintenance protocols.
“HAL reiterates that maintenance aspects are critical to the continued airworthiness of helicopters and emphasises that all maintenance directives must be followed scrupulously,” it said.
How long has Dhruv been in service?
Manufactured by HAL, the Dhruv ALH has logged over 4.5 lakh flying hours and has been operational for more than two decades. The fleet is used extensively across the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and by civil operators.
