Safran Launches India's First Global Engine MRO Facility in Hyderabad: A Major Leap Towards Aviation Self-Reliance

Hyderabad:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated today the cutting-edge Safran Aircraft Engine Services India (SAESI) facility located at the GMR Aerospace and Industrial Park near Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad.

This facility represents a significant milestone as one of the world's largest Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) centers dedicated to LEAP (Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion) engines. It makes history as the first instance where a global engine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) has established an MRO operation within Indian borders.

The facility spans 45,000 square meters and involves an initial investment of approximately Rs 1,300 crore, providing substantial momentum to India's 'Aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) initiative in the strategic aviation sector.

By 2035, when fully operational, the SAESI center will have the capacity to service up to 300 LEAP engines annually. Future plans include extending MRO services to M88 engines used in Rafale fighter jets, which will enhance India's defense capabilities.

During the virtual inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the facility's significance beyond commercial aspects: "This Safran MRO facility is not just a commercial venture; it is a giant 'LEAP' towards Aatmanirbharta in our skies. It is a symbol of trust in India's talent and a new runway for our youth to build a global aviation hub right here on our own soil."

Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu highlighted the favorable policy environment that facilitated this development: "The success of this project is a direct result of our proactive policies, including GST reforms and updated MRO guidelines. This facility will significantly reduce foreign exchange outflow and firmly position India as the maintenance, repair, and overhaul powerhouse of Asia."

Olivier Andries, CEO of Safran, expressed the company's dedication to the Indian market: "India's booming aviation market demands world-class service, and this Hyderabad centre, our largest MRO outside of France, is our answer. We are deeply committed to the 'Make in India' vision and are excited to tap into the excellent technical talent base here to ensure the highest standards of engine reliability globally."

Telangana Chief Minister Anumula Revanth Reddy welcomed the investment, noting: "Telangana has firmly established itself as the leading aerospace and defence ecosystem in the country. Safran's landmark investment, which will create over a thousand high-value jobs, is a testament to Hyderabad's strategic location and our government's sustained efforts to attract the best global technology leaders."

The establishment of the SAESI facility offers numerous benefits for both India and the region. For the country, it means reduced foreign exchange outflow, as Indian airlines will no longer need to send engines abroad for major overhauls.

The facility's potential to service M88 military engines directly enhances India's defense self-reliance and operational readiness, while also strengthening India's position in the global aviation value chain and attracting international MRO work.

For Hyderabad and Telangana, the center will generate over 1,000 high-value jobs for skilled Indian technicians and engineers when operating at full capacity.

Additionally, the MRO will stimulate the growth of ancillary units and a comprehensive aerospace supply chain in the GMR Aerospace Park, further establishing Hyderabad as a premier Aerospace & Defence hub.

The facility incorporates advanced 'MRO 4.0' technologies and state-of-the-art process equipment, ensuring world-class service delivery while developing valuable skills within the local workforce.

The Safran MRO center is scheduled to begin operations in 2025, significantly enhancing the infrastructure needed to support India's rapidly growing commercial aircraft fleet.