Cochin International Aviation Services Limited (CIASL) has begun construction of its third Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) hangar at Cochin International Airport, as part of a ₹50 crore expansion project. The foundation stone was laid by S. Suhas, Chairman of CIASL and Managing Director of Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL), marking a major step towards making Kochi a key player in India’s aviation maintenance sector. CIASL Managing Director Santhosh J. Poovattil was also present at the ceremony.
Facility to Serve Diverse Aircraft Types
The new hangar will cover 53,800 sq ft and is expected to be completed within eight months. It is strategically located next to the upcoming CIASL Business Park and will cater to not only narrow-body commercial aircraft but also business jets, helicopters, and seaplanes.
Advanced Infrastructure and Workshop Space
The hangar includes 7,000 sq ft of office and workshop space and will be equipped for component repairs and non-destructive testing. This makes it suitable for handling a wide range of maintenance operations for both domestic and international clients.
Reducing Foreign Dependence
Currently, Indian airlines often rely on maintenance hubs abroad, including in Singapore, the UAE, and Sri Lanka. CIASL’s expansion aims to reverse this trend by providing high-quality MRO services locally and reducing foreign exchange outflow. Kochi will join the ranks of India’s major MRO hubs like Nagpur, Hyderabad, and Kolkata, and strengthen its appeal in South Asia’s aviation market.
Boosting Local Jobs and Aviation Ecosystem
CIASL Chairman S. Suhas said the project aligns with Kerala’s vision of building a complete aviation ecosystem. “It supports self-sufficiency in aircraft maintenance, generates foreign exchange, and creates highly skilled employment opportunities,” he said.
Covered Aircraft Parking Facility Also Introduced
CIASL is also setting up Kerala’s first covered aircraft parking facility, spanning 3.5 lakh sq ft and capable of accommodating up to 13 narrow-body aircraft. This infrastructure protects aircraft from monsoon rains, heat, and coastal winds, while also offering enhanced security and privacy for corporate and charter aircraft.
Future Expansion Plans
CIASL Managing Director Santhosh J. Poovattil confirmed that a second phase of development, worth ₹150 crore, is also being planned. The new hangar, along with the covered parking facility, is expected to deliver unmatched services to airlines and private operators, positioning Kochi as a competitive aviation maintenance destination.
