The Indian state of Kerala has recently issued a new tender for a light twin helicopter. Primarily for state VIP travel, other tasks may include medical evacuation. While being managed by the Police, the . They are offering a three year contract with a potential two year extension, and the expectation of at least 20 flight hours per month.

The requirements seek a twin-engined IFR helicopter capable of carrying six people, and the helicopter must not be more than 15 years old, operated by an approved AOC operator. A backup helicopter of the same type must also be available to cover maintenance down time. Desired features include TCAS, EGPWS and satellite tracking, and the operator is expected to demonstrate continuous CRM (Crew Resource Management) training is in place.

Despite previous criticism raised against the level of spending, Anil Kant, the Director General of Police, has initiated a new tender process for operations from Trivandrum International Airport. Tenders were issued on 7th October for submission no later than 22nd November, with bids being reviewed on 25th November. Once the results are announced, the winning operator will need to have their helicopter ready to commence flying 15 days after contracts are signed.

Kerala Police have previously contracted with Pawan Hans, who supplied a Dauphin up to the middle of 2021. A review of light-twin commercial operators in India by our sister organisation Parapex Media suggests that the only other potential bidders are Heligo Charters, OSS Air Management and Global Vectra. Only some of Pawan Hans AS365N3 fleet meet the age criteria, while the earlier 365N3s and standard 365N models do not.

The tender document can be found at https://keralapolice.gov.in/storage/orders/iaps/8cdf02ed7637b327eca52415edfe1166.pdf