Air India’s Bengaluru MRO Facility: A Game-Changer for Aviation Engineers and Career Growth
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The Indian aviation sector is witnessing significant growth, and Air India’s latest initiative in Bengaluru marks a major milestone in this trajectory. The airline has embarked on building a state-of-the-art Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at the Bangalore International Airport, a move poised to create substantial economic and employment opportunities. This blog takes a detailed look into the development of the MRO facility, its expected impact, and what it means for India’s aviation ecosystem.
A Ground-breaking Moment for Indian Aviation
Air India’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul facility is being built on a sprawling 35-acre land parcel at Bangalore International Airport. The project’s groundbreaking ceremony was held in the presence of high-profile officials, including Air India CEO Campbell Wilson, Gunjan Krishna, Commissioner for Industrial Development & Director of the Department of Industries & Commerce for Karnataka, and Hari Marar, CEO of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL).
This ambitious project is more than just a facility; it represents Air India's vision to create a self-reliant aviation ecosystem for the country. The MRO facility will house the latest aircraft maintenance technologies and will feature a mega hangar capable of accommodating both wide-body and narrow-body aircraft under one roof.
Economic Impact: Over 1,200 Direct Jobs and More
One of the most significant aspects of this project is its potential for job creation. According to Campbell Wilson, over 1,200 new jobs for skilled aviation engineers will be generated directly at the MRO facility. Furthermore, the economic ripple effect is expected to create up to seven times more indirect jobs for the local population, making this a transformative project for the region.
"Studies have shown that every job created at an airport has a multiplier effect on the economy, generating seven more jobs. This is consistent with what we see globally," said Wilson during a press conference.
A Rs 1,400 Crore Investment in India’s Aviation Future
Air India has earmarked Rs 1,400 crore for this MRO project, which is slated to become a major hub for the airline’s maintenance operations as it modernizes its fleet and expands globally. The facility is expected to play a crucial role in Air India’s long-term plans to build a self-sustaining aviation infrastructure in India, reducing dependency on foreign MRO services and fostering domestic expertise.
The facility will also be equipped with advanced aircraft maintenance technology, including overhead tele platforms, cranes, universal docking systems, and the largest vertical lift hangar doors in the country. Scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, the MRO facility is expected to be operational by 2026.
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Partnership with SIA Engineering Company
To ensure the success of this massive project, Air India has partnered with SIA Engineering Company (SIAEC), a strategic move aimed at bringing in world-class expertise in aircraft maintenance. This partnership is expected to boost Air India’s in-house maintenance capabilities and ensure that its growing fleet is serviced efficiently.
Boosting Skill Development: Basic Maintenance Training Organisation (BMTO)
Air India is not just building a facility but is also investing in the future workforce of the aviation industry. In 2025, the airline plans to open a Basic Maintenance Training Organisation (BMTO) in Bengaluru. This will provide a continuous inflow of trained personnel for aircraft maintenance and engineering activities, addressing the growing demand for skilled aviation engineers.
According to Wilson, the BMTO will initially train around 50 engineers, helping them become type-rated engineers for aircraft certification. This initiative opens up significant opportunities for engineering students who aspire to build a career in aviation engineering.
Strengthening India's Aviation Ecosystem
As India’s aviation sector continues to grow, the establishment of the Bengaluru MRO facility comes at an opportune time. The facility will not only enhance Air India’s ability to maintain its fleet but also contribute to the broader goal of making the country’s aviation ecosystem self-sufficient.
Air India’s decision to establish this MRO hub is a key step toward positioning the airline as a world-class carrier. By enhancing its maintenance capabilities and investing in local talent development, Air India is aligning itself with India’s vision of becoming a global aviation powerhouse.
Conclusion: A Step Towards a Self-Reliant Aviation Ecosystem
Air India’s MRO facility in Bengaluru is much more than a maintenance center—it represents a broader ambition to create a self-reliant, world-class aviation ecosystem in India. With over 1,200 direct jobs, thousands of indirect jobs, and skill development programs for future aviation engineers, this project is set to transform the local economy and strengthen India's position in global aviation.
As India’s aviation sector continues its upward trajectory, the establishment of this MRO facility will play a critical role in supporting its growth. By investing in cutting-edge technology and skilled labor, Air India is setting the stage for a more self-sufficient and efficient aviation ecosystem. The project also creates new opportunities for engineering students to enter the field of aviation maintenance, further contributing to the nation’s growth.
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By- Himanshu Garg