HYDERABAD- GMR group is expanding its maintenance-repair-overhaul (MRO) business, focusing on widebody aircraft servicing and new international markets.
The company plans to construct hangars equipped for servicing larger planes, responding to increasing air traffic and new aircraft orders.
GMR Aero Technik Widebody Hangar
GMR Aero Technic, the group’s MRO arm, currently maintains turboprop and narrow-body aircraft, including Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 models. The company primarily serves Asian airlines but aims to extend its reach to African and Central Asian markets, reported Hindu Business Line.
Ashok Gopinath, President of GMR Aero Technic, revealed to BusinessLine that the company operates four hangars accommodating 9-10 aircraft. He announced plans to construct additional hangars with widebody capabilities and aircraft painting facilities, addressing growing market demand.
The expansion will enhance GMR’s service offerings, potentially attracting more international clients and diversifying its customer base. This move aligns with the global aviation industry’s recovery and the trend towards larger aircraft acquisitions by airlines.
GMR Aero Technic’s main facilities are located in Hyderabad, but the company also provides line maintenance services at various other Indian airports. These services include routine pre-departure maintenance checks, ensuring a comprehensive MRO network across the country.
International Collaborations
GMR Aero Technic is expanding its operations to meet the growing demand for air travel in the Asia Pacific region. The International Air Transport Association predicts higher profits for airlines in 2024, driven by increased travel demand in this area.
Indian carriers are upgrading their fleets to expand their reach. Air India (AI) ordered 70 widebody planes last year, while IndiGo (6E) finalized a deal for 30 Airbus A350 aircraft earlier this year.
GMR Aero Technic is developing facilities to service these larger aircraft, positioning itself to capitalize on this market shift.
The company is diversifying its revenue streams through strategic partnerships and new service offerings. In March, GMR Aero Technic signed an agreement with Boeing to establish a facility for converting 737 passenger aircraft into freighters. This move taps into the growing demand for cargo transport capabilities.
GMR Aero Technic is also collaborating with Lufthansa Technik to provide engine wash services at various Indian airports. This partnership allows the company to offer specialized maintenance services across a broader geographic area.
Additionally, the company has partnered with Spirit Aero Systems for aircraft nacelle repairs. This collaboration enhances GMR Aero Technic’s repair capabilities, allowing it to offer more comprehensive maintenance services to its clients.
Government Support
GMR Aero Technic has secured a position as one of five approved maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities for Boeing’s Conversion Freighter program.
The company’s president, Ashok Gopinath, reports significant progress in their collaboration with Boeing over the past year, focusing on knowledge sharing and technical skill development.
The Indian government recently announced a uniform 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) rate for all aircraft parts. This policy change is expected to boost the MRO sector and the broader aviation industry, according to the Civil Aviation Ministry.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu projects that the Indian MRO industry will grow to a $4 billion market by 2030. He emphasizes that this tax policy adjustment is crucial for building a robust MRO service ecosystem, fostering innovation, and ensuring sustainable growth in the sector.
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