Boeing and GMR Aero Technic to Set Up First Boeing Freighter Conversion Line in India

NEW DELHI,  March 10, 2023 - Boeing [NYSE: BA] today 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 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 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 market 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.”

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.

About Boeing

Boeing’s advanced aircraft and services play an important role in the mission-readiness for the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy. 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. Boeing serves communities and citizenship programs to inspire change and make an impact on more than 500,000 lives in India. For more information, visit www.boeing.co.in.