Odisha Government Establishes Key Aircraft MRO at Bhubaneswar Airport

The Odisha government is set to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) unit at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar.

This new facility will be housed in a 4,670-square-meter hangar, which is being constructed for this purpose. A private entity will be chosen through a government tender to operate the unit. Currently, aircraft operating from Bhubaneswar have to rely on other airports for maintenance, leading to delays and higher operational costs. The new MRO facility will provide on-site repair services, minimizing downtime for airlines and enhancing the airport's operational efficiency.

The MRO unit will be capable of servicing large aircraft such as the Airbus A321, as well as smaller aircraft, helicopters, and choppers. The hangar has been approved by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and has been handed over to the state government, which will oversee its management and pay a monthly rent for its use. The apron and taxiway in front of the hangar will facilitate smooth aircraft movement to the MRO unit. Operational details and rental agreements are still under discussion.

The MRO facility is expected to attract significant interest from both large and small maintenance firms, helping position Bhubaneswar as a key regional aviation hub. With 52 daily flights in and out of the airport, this expansion will further support the growth of regional air connectivity in eastern India, with the MRO playing a crucial role in maintaining aircraft efficiently.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.