Nagpur: Air India and Tata Advanced Systems have announced plans to invest Rs 2300 crore in Bengaluru, Karnataka, for three projects, including Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities. This decision comes despite a letter from Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, to Tata Sons urging investment in MIHAN (Multi-modal International Cargo Hub and Airport) in Nagpur. The move has sparked questions regarding the apparent disinterest of companies in MIHAN, despite its strategically central location.
Nagpur boasts the only Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in India connected to an airport, with a taxiway prepared to link the airport to the MRO. However, hindered by safety standards neglect, the MRO taxiway remains outside the operational area, necessitating the towing of planes. This process currently takes up to six hours to complete security arrangements. Nevertheless, there is potential for significant improvement, with the adoption of faster power-taxing methods capable of reducing this time to just 15 minutes.
Notably, companies such as the renowned French firm Safran Aircraft Engine have opted for alternative states, with Safran exploring investment options in Hyderabad rather than MIHAN. The recent inauguration of AAR-Indamer in MIHAN-SEZ by Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia emphasized the importance of domestic aircraft maintenance. Streamlining processes and ensuring adherence to safety standards are seen as critical steps towards attracting more companies to invest in MIHAN’s promising aerospace sector.
