New Heart of the Skies: PM Launches Safran Engine Facility to Make India a Global MRO Hub

Updated: November 27, 2025 11:18

Image Source : Prime Minister Of India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Safran Aircraft Engine Services India’s (SAESI) state-of-the-art aircraft engine MRO facility at Hyderabad’s GMR Aerospace and Industrial Park. The ₹1,300 crore centre will service LEAP engines powering Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX fleets, targeting up to 300 engines annually and over 1,000 skilled jobs.

The SAESI facility, developed by French aerospace major Safran, spans 45,000 sq m within the GMR Aerospace and Industrial Park SEZ near Hyderabad airport. Built at an estimated cost of around ₹1,300 crore, it is designed to handle maintenance, repair and overhaul of up to 300 CFM LEAP engines a year once fully ramped up.

These next-generation engines power popular Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft used by Indian and global airlines, positioning Hyderabad as a key node in Safran’s worldwide MRO network.

Strategic boost for India’s aviation

During the virtual inauguration, the Prime Minister said the facility marks a major step in India’s ambition to become a global MRO hub and reduce dependence on overseas centres, where nearly 85% of Indian MRO work is currently done.

By bringing deep-level OEM servicing to India for the first time, the project is expected to cut turnaround times, save foreign exchange, and strengthen supply-chain resilience for Indian carriers.

Jobs, technology and future expansion

At full capacity, SAESI is expected to employ over 1,000 highly skilled technicians and engineers by 2035, alongside opportunities for local MSMEs in components and services.

Safran is also investing in an additional MRO facility in Hyderabad for M88 military engines used in Rafale jets, deepening its long-term commitment to India’s civil and defence aviation ecosystem.

Key highlights

Inauguration of Safran Aircraft Engine Services India (SAESI) MRO facility at Hyderabad via video conferencing.
₹1,300 crore investment; 45,000 sq m facility inside GMR Aerospace and Industrial Park SEZ.
Capacity to service up to 300 LEAP engines per year at full scale.
Over 1,000 skilled Indian jobs expected by 2035, plus MSME ecosystem opportunities.
Supports India’s goal of becoming a global aircraft engine MRO hub and reducing overseas dependence.
Parallel plans for an M88 military engine MRO unit further cement Safran’s India expansion.

Sources: Press Information Bureau, DD News, Hindustan Times, The Economic Times, Times of India, Metro India, Safran Group releases

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