Boeing and GMR partner to establish a freighter conversion line in Hyderabad

Boeing, the American aircraft manufacturer, has joined forces with GMR Aero Technic of India to establish a facility in Asia for converting commercial airplanes into cargo planes. This move aims to capitalize on the increasing worldwide demand for cargo transportation.

The conversion of passenger planes into freight carriers will take place in Hyderabad, where Boeing and GMR will inaugurate the new freighter conversion line. By providing freight services in India, the facility will satisfy both domestic and international demand.

According to a media release, GMR Aero Technic will be the first Boeing supplier in India to possess the ability to facilitate future conversions of domestic and foreign aircraft.

Boeing and GMR

During a press conference in New Delhi, Salil Gupte, the President of Boeing India, expressed his belief that the time has come for the cargo market. He stated that the partnership between Boeing and GMR Aero Technic is a testament to the maturity of Indian Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) companies in the country. Additionally, he believes that the partnership will aid the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and contribute to the expected growth of the cargo sector in the region.

In a press release, Salil Gupte, the President of Boeing India, highlighted the significance of the cargo market and the partnership between Boeing and GMR Aero Technic. He expressed his belief that the partnership signifies the maturation of Indian MRO companies in supporting the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and also reinforces the potential growth of the cargo sector in the region.

According to Chief Strategy Officer Marc Allen, the new facility will contribute to Boeing’s existing $1 billion supply chain sourcing from India and will aid India’s goal of becoming a worldwide cargo hub. However, he did not disclose any information regarding the timeline or the investment size of the facility’s establishment.

Boeing has intensified its interest in India. In February, the aviation giant revealed its intention to invest $24 billion in constructing a logistics center for aircraft components. Additionally, Air India placed a historic order for approximately 500 planes, valued at over $100 billion at list prices, from both Boeing and Airbus.