Boeing, GMR Aero Technic slated to set up first Boeing freighter conversion line in India
GMR Aero Technic is the first Boeing supplier in India that will have the capability to support future conversions of both domestic and foreign aircraft
Boeing on Friday announced an agreement with GMR Aero Technic to establish a new Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) line in Hyderabad. GMR Aero Technic is the first Boeing supplier in India that will have the capability to support future conversions of both domestic and foreign aircraft.
The collaboration adds to Boeing’s continued investments to support the growth of cargo and will help expand complex aircraft modification capabilities and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) in India, supporting India’s aspiration to become an aviation and aerospace hub for the region.
“Our cooperation with GMR Aero Technic is not only a testimony of the maturation of Indian MROs in the country to support the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, but also supports the anticipated growth of the cargo sector in the region,” said Salil Gupte, president, Boeing India.
Speaking on this agreement, Ashok Gopinath, CEO, GMR Aero Technic said, “With the rise in the Indian aviation industry, MRO services in India has been one of the fastest-growing markets globally. The collaboration with Boeing reaffirms our capability to provide world-class MRO services and further contribute to the “Make in India” initiative. We thank Boeing for the opportunity given and look forward to working together for future initiatives.”
Seated (from L to R): Ashok Gopinath, CEO, GMR Aero Technic, Salil Gupte, president, Boeing India. Standing (from L to R) Pradeep Panicker, CEO – GHIAL & Board of Director for GMR Aero Technic, Marc Allen, chief strategy officer, The Boeing Company, Ashwani Bhargava, senior director supply chain, Boeing India
Boeing has more than 40 years of successful experience in passenger-to-freighter conversions, relying on original design data and a deep understanding of the needs of the air cargo industry to deliver a superior, integrated product.
According to Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook, India’s air cargo growth is expected to average 6.3% annually, driven by the country’s manufacturing and e-commerce sectors, including its 'Make in India' initiative. Boeing forecasts demand for more than 75 freighters, including production and converted freighters.
India’s long-term forecasted growth in air traffic, and availability of a large pool of skilled aviation technicians and engineers, position it well to become a key regional player in the commercial aviation sector. With over eight decades of presence in India, Boeing has built a strong network of support for its customers in the region through various initiatives and partnerships while contributing to the growth and development of the Indian aerospace and defence sector.
Boeing has strengthened its supply chain with more than 300 local companies in India and a joint venture to manufacture fuselages for Apache helicopters. Annual sourcing from India stands at $1 billion. Boeing currently employs over 5,000 people in India and an additional 13,000 through over 300 Indian partners.
