New Delhi/Bengaluru: P.B. Rangarao has been recommended for appointment as the next Director (Operations) of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) by the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB). The recommendation was made following the selection meeting held on August 8, 2026.
Rangarao is currently serving as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Helicopter Complex, HAL, a position he has held since July 1, 2025. His appointment as Director (Operations) will be subject to approval from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).
PESB Recommends P.B. Rangarao for HAL Director (Operations) Post
The PESB selection panel interviewed 10 candidates for the position of Director (Operations). All the candidates were from HAL.
Following the interview process, the panel recommended P.B. Rangarao for the senior management position.
The Director (Operations) is responsible for overseeing the company’s operational activities, improving administrative efficiency and coordinating various departments to support HAL’s long-term business objectives.
Read also: How HAL’s Indigenous Satellite-Guided Landing System Will Transform Helicopter Operations in India
P.B. Rangarao’s Current Role at HAL
Rangarao has been serving as Chief Executive Officer of HAL’s Helicopter Complex since July 1, 2025.
Before taking charge as CEO of the Helicopter Complex, he served as Executive Director, Helicopter Division, where he handled key operational responsibilities related to the company’s helicopter business.
His long association with HAL and experience across manufacturing, planning and project-related functions are expected to support his responsibilities in the Director (Operations) role.
31 Years of Experience with HAL
P.B. Rangarao began his career with HAL in 1995 as a Design Trainee.
Over more than three decades with the company, he has worked across several important functions, including:
- Plant Maintenance
- ALH Manufacturing Shops
- Ch/Ck Transmission and Blade Shop
- Ch/CK Project
- Outsourcing
- Planning
- Helicopter Division
His career progression has given him experience across manufacturing, engineering, project management and operational planning functions within HAL.
Educational Qualifications of P.B. Rangarao
Rangarao holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Regional Engineering College, Warangal.
He also has a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Management from XIME, Bengaluru and has completed a Leadership Development Programme from IIM Ahmedabad.
His technical and management qualifications complement his extensive experience in the aerospace and defence manufacturing sector.
Who Were the Other Candidates?
The PESB panel interviewed the following 10 candidates for the Director (Operations) position:
- P.B. Rangarao – Chief Executive Officer, Helicopter Complex, HAL
- Jasbir Singh – Executive Director, Rotary Wing Research and Design Centre, Bengaluru, HAL
- Shrirang Anilrao Kothe – Executive Director, Koraput, HAL
- Arup Kumar Mallick – Executive Director, HAL Management Academy
- Sumana Prakash – General Manager, ARDC, HAL
- Dr. Abhishek Singh – Chief Designer (Grade-IX), Rotary Wing R&D Centre, Design Complex, Bengaluru
- Navneet Kaul – General Manager, Aerospace Composites Division, Bengaluru
- Ravindra Kumar – Chief of Projects, LCA, HAL
- Kanwal Krishen Bhat – General Manager, Accessories Division, Lucknow
- Sri Krishna Prasad Vadlani – General Manager, Aircraft Division, HAL
HAL Director (Operations) Appointment Awaits ACC Approval
The PESB recommendation is not the final appointment. P.B. Rangarao’s appointment will be subject to approval from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). Until a regular incumbent takes charge, the Director (Operations) position is being handled as an additional responsibility by HAL Chairman and Managing Director Ravi K. The additional charge has reportedly been extended until October 2026.
What Will Rangarao Handle as Director (Operations)?
As Director (Operations), Rangarao will be responsible for overseeing HAL’s operational activities and ensuring effective coordination across various business functions.
His key responsibilities are expected to include:
- Managing day-to-day operational activities
- Improving administrative efficiency
- Coordinating different departments
- Strengthening teamwork and operational performance
- Supporting the company’s long-term business objectives
His extensive experience within HAL’s helicopter, manufacturing, planning and project functions could provide continuity and operational expertise in the new role.
About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is a leading Indian aerospace and defence company and a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Defence. Headquartered in Bengaluru, HAL is involved in the design, development, manufacture, repair and overhaul of a wide range of aircraft, helicopters, aero-engines and related aerospace systems. The company plays a key role in India’s defence production and the country’s drive towards greater self-reliance in aerospace and defence.
