Air India's Planned Aircraft Order Highlights Need for Domestic MRO Infrastructure
Air India is reportedly in discussions to procure around 200 additional narrowbody aircraft from Airbus and Boeing, following its 2023 order of 470 aircraft. This expansion underscores the growing importance of strengthening India’s maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) infrastructure to support the increasing fleet size.
The airline's fleet growth is expected to drive significant demand for MRO services, including line maintenance, base maintenance, and component repair. In response, Air India plans to bring Boeing 777 line maintenance operations in-house by early 2025 and aims to commission a new base maintenance facility by 2026.
The expansion opens opportunities for private MRO providers to invest and participate in India's aviation maintenance ecosystem. It also points to the need for workforce development and regulatory support. Addressing future maintenance needs will involve training and certifying personnel in advanced aircraft technologies, along with investments in modern tooling and infrastructure.
“Increased fleet size will lead to a proportional rise in maintenance requirements, encompassing line maintenance, base maintenance, and component repairs,” the company said.
Air India is part of the Tata Group and operates domestic and international flights. The airline is undergoing a transformation plan that includes fleet modernization and operational restructuring.