Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually inaugurate the Safran Aircraft Engine Services India (SAESI) facility at the GMR Aerospace and Industrial Park, located within the SEZ at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad, on 26th November at 10 AM.
A Landmark for India’s Aviation Sector
SAESI is Safran’s specialized Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) center for LEAP (Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion) engines, which power popular aircraft such as the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX. This marks the first time a global aircraft engine manufacturer has established an MRO operation in India, underscoring the country’s growing importance in the global aviation ecosystem.
Scale and Capacity
- Facility size: 45,000 square meters
- Investment: ₹1,300 crore (approx.)
- Annual capacity: Up to 300 LEAP engines
- Employment: Over 1,000 skilled Indian engineers and technicians by 2035
Equipped with advanced technology and modern process equipment, the center is designed to deliver world‑class engine servicing and repair capabilities.
Boost to Aatmanirbhar Bharat
The launch of SAESI is seen as a major step towards self‑reliance in aviation. By strengthening India’s MRO capabilities, the facility will:
- Reduce dependence on overseas servicing and cut foreign exchange outflow
- Generate high‑value employment opportunities
- Enhance supply‑chain resilience
- Position India as a competitive global hub for aviation services
Policy Support
The Government of India has been actively fostering a strong MRO ecosystem through initiatives such as:
- GST reforms (2024)
- MRO Guidelines (2021)
- National Civil Aviation Policy (2016)
These measures have simplified compliance, rationalized tax structures, and reduced royalty burdens, making India an attractive destination for global aviation investments.
