The Air India Group has embarked on an ambitious project—the construction of a mega MRO facility at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru.
With an earmarked budget of Rs 1,400 crore, this facility aims to revolutionize aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul operations.
Beyond its technical significance, the project holds the promise of generating over 1,200 skilled jobs and bolstering the local aviation ecosystem.
The MRO facility will be situated on a sprawling 35-acre site within Kempegowda International Airport. It will serve as a hub for Air India Group’s aircraft maintenance operations, supporting both wide-body and narrow-body aircraft.
The facility is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, with operations commencing in the subsequent year.
Air India MRO Facility: Bengaluru’s Strategic Importance
Air India’s decision to establish this MRO facility in Bengaluru is strategic on multiple fronts:
Hub Diversification: Beyond its existing hubs in Delhi and Mumbai, Air India aims to develop Bengaluru as a major aviation hub. The city’s strategic location, robust infrastructure, and skilled workforce make it an ideal choice for this critical facility.
Self-Reliance and Ecosystem Building: The MRO facility aligns with the broader goal of building a self-reliant aviation ecosystem in India.
By modernizing its fleet and expanding globally, Air India seeks to create a sustainable and self-sufficient aviation industry.
Industries Commissioner, Gunjan Krishna said, “It is heartening to see the quick turnaround that Air India has made in starting work for the MRO.”
“This is not only a milestone for Indian aviation, which is growing at a rapid pace, but also for the state of Karnataka, which is taking a lead in the aviation sector with Bengaluru set to emerge as an important global aviation hub in the coming years,” he said .
Also Watch: 40% Rise in FY24 Sexual Harassment? Handling Retaliation, Click Here
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The MRO facility is expected to directly generate over 1,200 new jobs. These positions will include skilled aviation engineers, technicians, and support staff.
Beyond direct employment, the facility will have a ripple effect on the local economy. It is estimated that it will support more than 200 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Karnataka. This will be achieved through an enhanced supply chain.
Bangalore International Airport (BIAL) MD & CEO Hari Marar welcomed the greenfield MRO facility. “This development will not only enhance regional connectivity and drive economic growth but also create valuable opportunities for local talent and businesses, reinforcing Bengaluru’s position as an important player in the aviation ecosystem.”
Also Watch: The Future of Jobs in BFSI Sector in FY25, Click Here
Facility Features and Capabilities:
Mega Hangar: The facility will house a mega hangar capable of accommodating both wide-body and narrow-body aircraft. This will be done simultaneously for base maintenance.
Expansion Plans: Additional hangars are planned to service more aircraft, including a dedicated paint hangar.
Cutting-Edge Infrastructure: Overhead tele-platforms, cranes, and universal docking systems will facilitate efficient maintenance procedures.
Notably, the facility will boast the largest vertical lift hangar doors in the country.
Air India MD & CEO Campbell Wilson said India’s aviation sector was on a growth trajectory and Air India was playing a leading role in this. “This is a step ahead in our mission to make Air India a world-class airline.”
Air India: Vision for the Future
Air India’s Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Campbell Wilson, emphasized the airline’s ongoing transformation. With an ever-expanding fleet and a commitment to reliability, Air India is positioning itself for sustained growth and excellence in service.
Note: We are also on WhatsApp, LinkedIn, Google News, and YouTube, to get the latest news updates, Subscribe to our Channels. WhatsApp– Click Here, Google News– Click Here, YouTube – Click Here, and LinkedIn– Click Here.
