Chandigarh, Jan 26 (IANS) Giving a boost to flying, the Punjab civil aviation department has been allotted a twin-engine trainer aircraft, Beech Hawker Baron G58, by the Aero Club of India, New Delhi, an official said here Tuesday.

'Baron G58 is equipped with a fully digitised glass cockpit, which would enable trainees to undertake flying as per international laid down norms and procedures,' said a Punjab government spokesperson.

He added: 'This is the only twin-engine trainer aircraft available in the northern region. It has a seating capacity of four besides two seats for the pilot and co-pilot.'

The aircraft is presently parked at the Amritsar aviation club.

'This aircraft could also be used to ferry passengers, after its operator acquires non schedule permit from the union ministry of civil aviation,' the spokesperson said.