Aerospace sector adopting AI in big way: HAL chief

Innovation is the need of the hour and the aerospace industry is reflecting rapid advancement on artificial intelligence-based tools to enhance safety of systems, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) chairman & managing director CB Ananthakrishnan said.

Ananthakrishnan was speaking at Indian Institute of Management-Calcutta's annual business conclave here on Saturday.

AI-based products and tools are being used for the maintenance of aircraft components. Also used are AI-based automated carbon recognition systems, he said, speaking through videoconferencing.


State-run HAL has always been promoting research & development and innovation for making India self-reliant in the aerospace industry, he said. “One of the key aspects of innovation is adoption of advance materials and manufacturing design and techniques."

Speaking at the programme, Aman Gupta, cofounder of Boat, said his company that manufacturers consumer electronic products such as earphones and smart watches, employed 6,000 people in its own manufacturing unit and was aiming to take it to 10,000.

"The Indian government is focusing on promoting startups and emphasising on 'Make in India',” he said.

Others who spoke at the event included MapmyIndia chief executive Rohan Verma.