Aircraft manufacturer Boeing on Friday announced that it has entered into an agreement with India’s GMR Aero Technic for setting up a new Boeing converted freighter line in Hyderabad.
Boeing India in a Tweet informed about the development. The company tweeted, “India’s first Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) line is on the way! We are proud to be working with GMR Aero Technic to establish the new BCF line as we continue supporting India’s aspiration to become an aviation & aerospace hub for the region.”
The line will support the conversion of aircraft both for India’s domestic market as well as the international market, Boeing said in a press release, reported news agency ANI.
According to a release from Boeing, the collaboration adds to its continued investments to support cargo growth and help expand complex aircraft modification capabilities and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) in India supporting India's aspiration to become an aviation and aerospace hub. It said that with over eight decades of presence in India, Boeing has built a strong network of support for its customers through various initiatives and partnerships while contributing to the growth and development of the Indian aerospace and defense sector.
“A big milestone! And India’s expected cargo growth makes this an opportune time as well. Our cooperation with GMR Aero Technic to set up India’s first Boeing Converted Freighter line is a testimony to India’s growing MRO capabilities and support to #AatmanirbharBharat.” Salil Gupte, president of Boeing India tweeted.
The investment comes despite a global economic slump that has crippled the global air cargo sector. It furthers the US manufacturer's growth into India and comes on top of a record-breaking plane order by flag carrier Air India.
The proposed facility comes amid a push by Boeing to grow in India, which includes a $24 million investment to establish an aviation part logistics hub, reported Reuters.