Bhopal Airport to Launch Aircraft MRO Hub by 2026, Boosting Aviation Sector
Bhopal is set to become Madhya Pradesh’s premier aviation maintenance hub with the launch of the state’s first aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility by 2026. Located at Raja Bhoj Airport, the ₹25 crore project will service a wide range of aircraft and cater to both domestic and international airlines. Authorities say the development will not only enhance airline efficiency but also generate new employment and training opportunities for the region’s technical workforce.
The upcoming MRO facility at Bhopal’s Raja Bhoj Airport is poised to transform the regional aviation landscape. Built on a 1.5-acre plot, the centre will handle routine aircraft maintenance, component repairs, and modifications. Equipped to service regional jets and narrow-body aircraft, the facility aims to reduce the turnaround time and operational costs for airlines operating across India. Officials highlighted that the central geographical location of Bhopal makes it a strategic choice for carriers flying pan-India. In addition to aircraft servicing, the facility will host dedicated hangars, workshops, and technical equipment to deliver end-to-end maintenance services. A planned on-site training centre is expected to provide real-world exposure to students from engineering and aviation institutes, creating a direct pipeline of skilled technicians. With demand for reliable MRO services growing, the initiative aligns with national goals of reducing dependence on overseas and distant domestic maintenance hubs.
Authorities say the Bhopal MRO project will bolster the region’s economy by generating both direct and indirect employment. Beyond aviation technicians and engineers, sectors such as logistics, hospitality, and local transportation are expected to benefit from increased activity. The MRO unit will be developed in compliance with international aviation safety and operational standards, ensuring its suitability for both Indian and global carriers. Sustainable practices, including energy-efficient systems and advanced waste management protocols, have been integrated into the facility’s design to meet environmental goals. The development is also in line with India’s broader push for self-reliance in the aviation sector, especially in post-pandemic recovery. Officials believe the centre will ease pressure on existing MROs in metros and help decentralise technical infrastructure. Once operational, the Bhopal MRO is expected to serve as a critical support node for airlines operating short-haul and mid-range fleets, improving maintenance logistics and service availability in central India.
With construction underway and completion expected by 2026, Bhopal’s upcoming MRO facility marks a major milestone in Madhya Pradesh’s aviation sector. The initiative is designed not only to improve maintenance efficiency for airlines but also to foster technical education, boost local employment, and support allied industries. Positioned centrally, the facility is expected to attract carriers from neighbouring states while strengthening the national aviation ecosystem. By embedding international standards and sustainability into its framework, the MRO unit promises long-term value and resilience. This development reinforces Bhopal’s growing role as a strategic node in India’s expanding aviation network.
