Boeing on Friday announced an agreement with GMR Aero Technic to set up a new Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) line in Hyderabad. GMR Aero Technic is the first Boeing supplier in India to have the ability to support future conversions of both domestic and foreign aircraft.

The partnership will contribute to Boeing's ongoing investments to support cargo growth and will help expand complex aircraft modification capabilities and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) in India, supporting India's ambition to become an aerospace hub for the region.

"Our partnership with GMR Aero Technic is not only a testimony to the maturation of Indian MROs in the country to support Aatmanirbhar Bharat's vision, but also supports the expected growth of the cargo sector in the region," said Salil Gupte, president, Boeing India.

Ashok Gopinath, CEO of GMR Aero Technic, commented on this agreement: "With the rise of the Indian aviation industry, MRO services in India is one of the fastest growing markets worldwide. The partnership with Boeing confirms our ability to deliver world-class MRO services and further contribute to the "Make in India" initiative. We thank Boeing for the opportunity and look forward to working together on future initiatives."

Boeing has more than 40 years of successful experience in passenger to cargo plane conversions, relying on original design data and a deep understanding of the air cargo industry's needs to deliver a superior, integrated product.

According to Boeing's Commercial Market Outlook, India's air cargo growth is expected to average 6.3% per year, driven by the country's manufacturing and e-commerce sectors, including the 'Make in India' initiative. Boeing forecasts demand for more than 75 cargo planes, including manufacturing and converted cargo planes.

India’s long-term forecasted growth in air traffic, and availability of a large pool of skilled aviation technicians and engineers, position it well to become a key regional player in the commercial aviation sector. With over eight decades of presence in India, Boeing has built a strong network of support for its customers in the region through various initiatives and partnerships while contributing to the growth and development of the Indian aerospace and defence sector.

Boeing has strengthened its supply chain with more than 300 local companies in India and a joint venture to produce fuselates for Apache helicopters. The annual purchase from India is $1 billion. Boeing currently employs more than 5,000 people in India and another 13,000 through more than 300 Indian partners.