Gurugram-based Casey Aviation Secures TDB Grant to Build Hybrid Propulsion Test Facility in North India

The Technology Development Board (TDB), Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, has signed an agreement with Casey Aviation Pvt Ltd, Gurugram, for the project titled “Boost Electric Jump Take-Off (BE-JTO).” The conditional grant is sanctioned under the India–UK Collaborative R&D Programme for Industrial Sustainability, in partnership with UK-based ARC Aerosystems Ltd.

Key Highlights

• Project Title: Boost Electric Jump Take-Off (BE-JTO)
• Partners: TDB, Casey Aviation Pvt Ltd (India), ARC Aerosystems Ltd (UK)
• Funding: Conditional grant under India–UK Collaborative R&D Programme

Objectives

• Develop advanced hybrid propulsion-based Jump Take-Off (JTO) systems
• Enhance operational capabilities of unmanned and light aircraft
• Establish a dedicated test bench facility for rotorcraft propulsion systems

Applications

• Regional connectivity in remote areas
• Disaster response and medical evacuation
• Unmanned logistics and surveillance operations

Strategic Importance

• First hybrid propulsion testing facility in North India
• Supports startups and developers in aerial mobility systems
• Facilitates commercialization of hybrid propulsion solutions

Rajesh Kumar Pathak, Secretary, TDB, said - Collaborative R&D initiatives under international programmes advance cutting-edge technologies in strategic sectors.

Casey Aviation Promoters, said the project will validate technology in real-world conditions and accelerate scalable propulsion solutions.

The BE-JTO project marks a milestone in India’s aerospace innovation, combining hybrid propulsion, international collaboration, and ecosystem development to advance unmanned and regional air mobility.

Electric Jump Take-Off (EJTO) is an emerging aerospace propulsion concept that uses hybrid-electric systems to enable aircraft and drones to lift off vertically or with extremely short runways, combining the efficiency of electric power with the thrust of conventional propulsion.

What Electric Jump Take-Off Means

• Definition: EJTO refers to a hybrid propulsion system where electric motors provide an initial “jump” or vertical thrust to lift the aircraft off the ground, reducing or eliminating the need for long runways.
• Purpose: Designed for short take-off and landing (STOL) or vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) operations, especially in urban or remote environments.
• Hybrid System: Combines electric propulsion (for instant lift and efficiency) with conventional engines (for sustained flight and range).

Key Applications

• Unmanned Aircraft (Drones): EJTO enables drones to operate in confined spaces without runways, useful for logistics, surveillance, and emergency response.
• Regional Air Mobility: Light aircraft can take off from smaller airstrips or even improvised landing zones, expanding connectivity in rural and urban areas.
• Sustainability: Electric boost reduces fuel consumption and emissions during take-off, aligning with global green aviation goals.

Advantages of EJTO

• Reduced Infrastructure Needs: Aircraft can operate without long runways, ideal for congested cities or remote regions.
• Lower Operating Costs: Electric propulsion reduces fuel usage during take-off, one of the most energy-intensive flight phases.
• Enhanced Safety: Hybrid redundancy (electric + conventional) provides backup in case of system failure.
• Environmental Benefits: Lower emissions and noise compared to traditional jet or turboprop take-offs.

Challenges

• Battery Limitations: Current battery technology restricts the duration and intensity of electric boost.
• Integration Complexity: Synchronizing electric and conventional propulsion systems requires advanced control algorithms.
• Certification & Regulation: Aviation authorities must establish new standards for hybrid-electric jump take-off systems.

Quick Comparison: EJTO vs Traditional Take-Off

Feature	Traditional Take-Off	Electric Jump Take-Off
Runway Requirement	Long runway needed	Very short or none
Energy Source	Fossil fuel only	Hybrid (electric + fuel)
Emissions at Take-Off	High	Lower
Noise Levels	High	Reduced
Infrastructure Dependence	Airports only	Flexible sites

About Casey Aviation Pvt Ltd

• Founded: Newly established aerospace venture based in Gurugram
• Founders: Pawan Kakkar and Air Marshal GS Bedi (Retd)
• Focus: Designing and developing small aircraft and specialized aviation solutions
• Expertise: Brings together industry, academia, and research institutions
• Notable Project:DevDoot Hybrid Air Ambulance – gyrocopter platform for emergency medical logistics
• Vision: To make regional and personal aviation accessible, eco‑friendly, and mission‑ready.