Greater Noida: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated Phase 1 of the Noida International Airport at Jewar and announced the development of a major Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility aimed at boosting domestic aviation capabilities.
Speaking at the event, Modi highlighted India’s dependence on foreign countries for aircraft maintenance. “You will be surprised to know that in our country, MRO services were not previously provided. Even today, 85% of India’s aircraft are sent abroad for such work,” PM Modi said.
“The government is working to make India self-reliant in the sector by establishing large-scale MRO facilities nationwide,” PM Modi expressed.
An MRO unit inaugurated at Jewar is expected to reduce operational costs for airlines and position India as a hub for global aircraft maintenance.
“Once fully operational, India will service foreign aircraft as well, ensuring revenue remains within the country and generating employment opportunities for youth,” the prime minister added.
The greenfield airport, being developed at a cost of Rs 11,282 crore across 1,300 hectares, will initially have the capacity to handle 12 million passengers annually. It is planned to be expanded in phases to accommodate up to 70 million passengers per year.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who was present at the inauguration, said the project would accelerate economic development in the region and strengthen infrastructure.
Officials also announced a Rs 1,000 crore MRO ecosystem in partnership with industry players, including Akasa Air, aimed at creating jobs and enhancing technical expertise.
While leaders emphasised economic growth, some criticism surfaced over alleged mandatory attendance of students from nearby institutions such as Galgotias University and issues related to event protocols. However, these claims could not be independently verified.
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