In an insightful interview, Ashok Gopinath, President and Accountable Manager of GMR Aero Technic, reveals the company’s ambitious plans for growth and innovation. With a focus on expanding facilities, embracing advanced technology, and forging global partnerships, GMR Aero Technic is set to redefine the MRO landscape. The launch of the GMR School of Aviation, coupled with strategic advancements in automation and service capabilities, underscores their commitment to excellence and leadership in the aviation maintenance industry.
Q. – What are the core services offered by GMR Aero Technic?
A. – GMR Aero Technic offers a comprehensive range of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services, including base and line maintenance for various aircraft types, component repair and overhaul, and defense MRO services. In our hangars at the SEZ area of Hyderabad Airport, GMR Aero Technic conducts heavy maintenance checks, major structural repairs, end-of-lease checks, entry-into-service procedures, and full livery painting for narrow-body aircraft, including the B737 family, A320 family, Q400, and ATRs. We are the designated authorized MRO facility by De Havilland for the Q400 aircraft.
Following our agreement with Boeing for the conversion of passenger aircraft to freighters, we plan to start the first conversion by the end of this year. We also offer MRO services for critical components such as nacelles, flight control systems, radomes, and de-icer boot replacement and leading-edge repair.
Additionally, we have inaugurated the GMR School of Aviation, approved by DGCA and EASA, which provides a comprehensive end-to-end four-year Aircraft Maintenance Engineering licensed program. The first batch will start in July 2024. The school is also equipped to provide type training, executive courses, and more.
Q. – What are the long-term goals for GMR Aero Technic in the MRO sector?
A. – GMR Aero Technic aims to be a leading MRO services provider in the Asia Pacific region by offering comprehensive end-to-end services. Currently, we focus on narrow-body airframe MRO, performing all types of heavy maintenance checks, end-of-lease services, entry-into-service procedures, and full livery painting in our existing nine narrow-body lines. We have ear-marked nearly 40 acres for further expansion. In the near future, we plan to add wide-body capabilities and expand our capacity by adding more lines, including a wide-body hangar with painting capabilities. We will also significantly expand our Defense MRO services. Additionally, we have planned to enhance our MRO capabilities for critical components.
Q. – How does GMR Aero Technic plan to expand its service offerings and footprint in the MRO industry?
A. – Over the years, we have expanded our customer base of airlines, lessors, and other clients beyond the Indian subcontinent to the Middle East and Far East. The high quality of service we provide has made us the preferred MRO provider in the region. We are now expanding our global reach to CIS countries and the African region. In terms of line maintenance, we have a presence at all major airports in India and are now looking at international expansion.
Our existing narrow-body airframe MRO services will be extended to wide-body and defense aircraft by adding additional capacity. We have recently developed a de-icer boots facility approved by the FAA and forged partnerships with Spirit Aero for nacelles, radomes, and flight control surfaces, and with Lufthansa Technik for Cyclean Engine wash. We are adding more capabilities through strategic tie-ups with OEMs. The GMR School of Aviation, inaugurated this year, is also planning to expand in the next 2-3 years due to high demand from students.
Q. – What innovative technologies and practices are employed by GMR Aero Technic to enhance MRO efficiency?
A. – We place a strong emphasis on continuous improvement in efficiency through the adoption of the latest technologies. To improve operational efficiency and safety standards, we have initiated the tool issuance, tracking and retrieval mechanism using RFID & Bar-codes. Additionally, we have introduced Snap On, an Automated Tool Control system, to streamline the issuance and return of tools with user authorization. This system updates data online and offers a reporting feature to analyse tool usage. Additionally, we have implemented Robotic Process Automations (RPAs) to simplify routine activities and enhance productivity. An upgrade of our existing ERP system is also in progress to further boost operational efficiency. For upskilling and continuous process improvement, our employees undergo comprehensive training programs, including Lean Six Sigma and Date visualization dashboard usage. We have also initiated a project using Artificial Intelligence for improving the planning systems.
Q. – What major projects and expansions is GMR Aero Technic currently undertaking?
A. – GMR Aero Technic is currently engaged in several major projects and expansions. Being a preferred MRO in the region, we attract customers from Middle East to Far-East. Our facilities include four hangars, with plans for further expansion on nearly 40 acres. Notably, we have set to commence operations for converting passenger aircraft to freighters under an agreement with Boeing by the end of this year. We have also developed a De-Icer Boot facility approved by the FAA for Boot replacement and leading-edge repair and started services for nacelle, radome, and flight control surface repairs in collaboration with Spirit AeroSystems. Furthermore, aligned with the Government of India’s “Atma Nirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) and “Skill India Program” initiatives, we have launched the GMR School of Aviation. Our goal is to cultivate skilled professional in the aviation MRO services. The school provides comprehensive training for future aviation professionals, and we plan to expand in the coming years to meet increasing demand. We are committed to shaping the future of aviation in India.
Q. – How does GMR Aero Technic maintain compliance with international standards like EASA, FAA-US, and others?
A. – GMR Aero Technic maintains compliance with international standards such as EASA and FAA by adhering to rigorous quality and regulatory frameworks. We ensure all our processes and procedures meet the stringent requirements set by these agencies. Regular audits and inspections are conducted both internally and by external regulatory bodies to verify compliance. Additionally, we invest in continuous training and certification programs for our employees to keep them updated with the latest regulations and industry best practices. This commitment to quality and compliance helps maintain and enhance our 29 regulatory approvals and ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 & AS 9110 certifications, ensuring the highest standards of service.
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Q. – How does GMR Aero Technic ensure on-time delivery of its MRO services?
A. – GMR Aero Technic ensures on-time delivery of its MRO services through advanced planning and scheduling systems that manage workflow and resources efficiently. The state-of-the-art infrastructure, including four hangars and dedicated maintenance areas, supports simultaneous handling of multiple aircraft, reducing downtime. The introduction of the automation tools such as Snap On Automated Tool Control system streamlines tool issuance and returns, enhancing operational efficiency. GMR Aero Technic meticulously plans manpower, resources, and necessary tools and equipment. Once the aircraft is inducted, regular internal and customer meetings are held to monitor turnaround time (TAT) and address issues with proposed solutions.
