India’s aviation industry witnessed a historic moment as the country’s first-ever self-made aircraft seat was launched at the prestigious Wings India 2024 event. The seat, designed and manufactured by Bengaluru-based engineering company Timetooth, is a result of years of research and development in collaboration with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Indian airline companies.
A gap in the market
According to Amitav Chaudhuri, Co-Founder and Director of Timetooth, the company identified a gap in the Indian aviation market, where 100% of the seats of aircraft owned or operated by India registered air travel companies were imported. He said, “Timetooth identified the gap and with the help of DGCA and encouragement from Indian Airline companies, has launched this seat.”
A breakthrough in technology
The seat, which is currently ready for commuter aircraft like the Hindustan (Dornier) 228, is designed for performance as per ITSO C39c, while addressing user comfort and efficiency for the operator. Janhavi Nene, VP Engineering at Timetooth, who is the responsible project manager for the seats, said, “Our light-weight seats are currently ready for commuter aircraft like the newly DGCA certified, Hindustan (Dornier) 228. Regional transport aircraft seats with ITSO C127c are already in the pipeline.”
A boost to ‘Make in India’
The launch of India’s first self-made aircraft seat is a significant achievement for the ‘Make in India’ initiative, which aims to promote indigenous manufacturing and innovation. The seat showcases India’s technological prowess and self-reliance in the aerospace sector. It also reduces dependence on foreign manufacturers and saves foreign exchange.
A positive response from the industry
The unveiling of the self-made aircraft seat received a positive response from the aviation industry. Spicejet, one of the leading Indian airlines, expressed its interest in procuring state-of-the-art seating systems from Timetooth, customised to its brand and user experience vision. Arun Kashyap, COO Spicejet, said, “In light of our expansion and modernisation plan, we are looking forward to aligning with an Indian partner like Timetooth, that mirrors our commitment to safety, comfort and innovation.”
Epsilon Aerospace Pvt. Ltd., a leading player in aircraft cabin interior and refurbishment, signed an MoU with Timetooth for the manufacture and supply of airworthy seat covers and cushions for the Timetooth seats. Ashutosh Thatte, VP Business Development at Timetooth, said that the response to the seats program from the airlines in the region has been extremely positive.
A milestone for India
The debut of India’s first self-made aircraft seat at Wings India 2024 is a milestone for the country’s aviation industry. It reflects India’s potential to become a global leader in aerospace technology and innovation. It also demonstrates India’s commitment to enhancing passenger safety, comfort and satisfaction.