HAL HT-2 [IX741]

In addition to the HAL HF-24 1T, a HAL HT-2 is displayed inside the Periyar Science and Technology Center. This HT-2 IX-741 is displayed on pedestals and is in its original paint scheme of its airforce days. B Harry from Chennai brings this exclusive report from the PTC at Adyar.

The aircraft lacks the original engine and the front portion of the aircraft has been replicated carefully. However lack of exhaust stubs and air cooling intakes in the front makes the reconstruction work obvious to the casual visitor. The engine though not present on the aircraft might be displayed elsewhere in the center.

The front fuselage of the HT-2 including the engine cowling have been ‘reconstructed’ by the Center. This is obvious by the absence of air intake opening in the nose as well as lack of exhaust stacks. Pic Courtesy : B Harry

A peep inside the cockpit, helped by the thoughtfully provided walkway besides the aircraft shows the inside in a shambles. The instrument panel is still there with a few instruments still fixed in the panel. Otherwise, the aircraft is missing the control stick as well as the rudder pedals.

The HT-2 still sports the original paint scheme from its airforce career. Pic Courtesy : B Harry
	Close up of the nose of the aircraft . Note the plain engine cowling . Pic Courtesy : B Harry

IX-741 ‘s provenance to the center is not know. But its a likely candidate from the Flying Instructors School in Tambaram. The aircraft though not in a good shape is assured of a longer life as it is stored inside the premises.

There seem to be other aviation artifacts in the center in the form of a three bladed variable pitch propellor and a couple of piston engines of unknown origin. More on this aspect as we get some clear pictures of the same.

Inside the rear and front cockpits of the HT-2. The instrument panel still features some instruments like the compass, Artificial Horizon and altimeter. Note also the stub of the Stick. Pic Courtesy : B Harry