Overview

• The approval, issued under Rule 26(2) of the Aircraft Rules, allows IIT Kanpur to conduct the trials using a Cessna 206-H aircraft.
• Flights will operate under visual flight rules without remuneration under DGCA surveillance, with pilots required to hold current licenses and medical fitness.
• Operations depend on day-of meteorological suitability and will proceed only after obtaining state and local clearances with coordination from IMD and IITM Pune.
• Delhi’s environment minister says the aim is to trigger rain to temporarily wash airborne pollutants during the post-monsoon smog period.
• Earlier trial windows in July and late August to September were deferred due to monsoon conditions, with the authorized window now set for October to November 2025.