Development of N219 plane to boost domestic components

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Institute of Aeronautics and Space (Lapan) believes the development of N219 aircraft will encourage domestic industry to supply components of the aircraft.

"The certification of N219 aircraft is expected to be completed this year so it can be produced next year," Lapan Chief Thomas Djamaluddin said here  on Saturday.

The N219 amphibian aircraft is now being developed, he said.

Unless the N219 amphibian aircraft is developed soon, foreign aircraft manufacturers will grab the domestic market for this kind of aircraft, he said.

"The N219 amphibian aircraft is being developed. Otherwise, we will be late because Indonesia also needs (the aircraft) to serve certain tourist destinations which have no runway," he said,

The N219 aircraft is still under certification phase to ensure its reliability and function during its operations, he said.

"During the certification process, it is normal to find something that still has to be improved when aircraft undergoes tests," he said.

Quoting his discussion with international aircraft industry, Thomas said the period of three to four years is too short to develop and certify the aircraft.

However, Lapan is upbeat about achieving the target of accelerating the development of N219 aircraft.

The first prototype of the N219 aircraft has a maximum speed of 210 knots and a minimum speed of 50 knots. Hence, the aircraft can be controlled while flying over hilly ground and mountain range at low speed.