In a significant development for India's aviation sector, Safran CEO Olivier Andriès has emphatically declared India's strategic importance to the global aerospace and defense company. The declaration came during the inauguration of Safran's largest engine Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility in Hyderabad on November 26, 2025.
India's Booming Aviation Market Attracts Global Investment
Andriès highlighted that India's civil aviation market is experiencing unprecedented growth, with annual air traffic expansion consistently exceeding 10%. This remarkable growth trajectory has positioned India as a prime destination for aircraft and engine manufacturers seeking to expand their global footprint.
The Safran CEO specifically noted that 80% of India's narrow-body aircraft fleet currently operates using Safran's advanced LEAP engines. This substantial market penetration makes localized maintenance capabilities not just beneficial but essential for maintaining operational efficiency across the Indian aviation sector.
Hyderabad MRO: A Strategic Investment for Localized Services
The newly launched Hyderabad facility represents Safran's commitment to supporting India's aviation ecosystem. As the company's largest MRO center globally, this establishment will provide comprehensive maintenance services for LEAP engines, ensuring quicker turnaround times and reduced operational costs for Indian airlines.
This strategic investment addresses the critical need for localized maintenance infrastructure that can keep pace with India's rapidly expanding aviation sector. The facility is expected to create numerous skilled employment opportunities and enhance India's technical capabilities in aircraft engine maintenance.
Decades-Long Defense Partnership Strengthens
Beyond commercial aviation, Andriès emphasized Safran's longstanding relationship with India's defense forces. The company has served as a trusted partner to the Indian Air Force, Navy, and Army for several decades, providing advanced aerospace technology and defense solutions.
The CEO reaffirmed Safran's commitment to strengthening its footprint in India's defense sector, indicating potential for expanded collaboration and technology transfer in the coming years. This continued partnership underscores the mutual trust and strategic alignment between Safran and India's defense establishment.
Andriès' statements at the Hyderabad event clearly position India as a cornerstone of Safran's global strategy, combining both commercial aviation growth and defense cooperation in a comprehensive partnership approach that benefits both parties.
