Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu expressed optimism on November 26 that India is poised to become a leading global destination for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Speaking at the inauguration of Safran’s largest MRO center for CFM International LEAP engines, he highlighted that India has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing MRO market, expanding at three times the global rate.
Naidu noted that the MRO market in India is projected to reach $4 billion by 2031 at an impressive growth rate of 8.9%, compared to the global growth rate of 4.8%. He sees this as a significant opportunity for international engine manufacturers to collaborate with India’s evolving aviation sector. Over the past 11 years, India’s aviation landscape has seen remarkable growth, doubling its number of airports, aircraft, and passengers.
Due to increasing passenger demand, India’s commercial fleet has grown at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.6%, three times higher than the global average. This surge has created a demand for over 2,500 Safran engines to equip new aircraft.
Naidu described the opening of the MRO facility as a pivotal step in elevating India’s status as a global aviation services hub. He stated that this facility is on track to transform India into a premier MRO hub by 2030, capable of servicing up to 300 engines annually that currently necessitate overseas repair.
The minister emphasized that the inauguration of this facility by the Prime Minister reflects the confidence that global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have in India’s engineering prowess and infrastructure. He called the establishment of Safran’s MRO in India a significant leap forward for the country’s capabilities and credibility as an MRO destination. This investment not only enhances the local industry but also aligns with the government’s vision for an Atmanirbhar Bharat, aiming to localize 90% of LEAP engine maintenance by 2030.
Furthermore, Naidu noted that the facility will reduce dependence on foreign repair centers, expedite turnaround times, and decrease operational costs for Indian carriers. Ultimately, he stated that cost savings realized by the airlines will benefit Indian passengers directly. With a boost in the MRO sector, India is expected to fortify its aviation ecosystem, anticipating the addition of 3,000 more aircraft by 2047.
The Minister expressed his belief that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and his commitment to improving the business environment, India is swiftly becoming a global hub for aircraft engine maintenance. He remarked that “after Make in India and Train in India, Maintain in India is becoming a crucial part of our aviation growth narrative.” With a historic investment of $150 million, a global engine OEM is establishing capabilities reflective of the advancements seen at Safran. By 2028, it’s estimated that about 25% of Safran’s global LEAP MRO operations will originate from India.
Naidu outlined various progressive initiatives by the Central government that have catalyzed MRO development in the country. As a result, the number of MRO facilities rose from 96 in 2014 to an estimated 166 by 2025. However, he acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly the high reliance on imports for components, airframes, and engines, which exceeds 60%. Currently, Indian airlines often send aircraft to countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia for heavy maintenance, a costly and time-consuming process. Given that engine overhauls constitute about 45% of the MRO market, Naidu underscored the unique potential for India to become an MRO hub, projecting possible savings of up to $15 billion in foreign exchange over the next decade.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/india-set-to-become-global-destination-for-aircraft-mro-services-aviation-minister
Category: India
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Publish Date: 2025-11-26 15:20:00
