Aerospace

Boeing opens first parts distribution center in India

Boeing’s India footprint expands with a 36,000-square-foot hub at Khurja, Uttar Pradesh
Parts warehouse will help regional aviation customers maintain higher fleet utilization

Boeing, the prominent U.S. aerospace company, has officially inaugurated a new warehousing facility in Khurja, Uttar Pradesh, dedicated to the supply of aircraft parts.

Collaborating with third-party logistics provider DB Schenker, the 36,000-square-foot India Distribution Centre is designed to support regional aviation customers in optimizing fleet utilization. This strategic move reflects a commitment to fostering the growth of the Indian market, aligning with the government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) vision.

Salil Gupte, President of Boeing India, emphasized the center’s significance in meeting the evolving spare parts needs for boeing aircraft in India. By reducing lead times, improving availability, and supporting the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) industry, the facility aims to enhance operational efficiency in the region. Boeing’s India Distribution Centre is the eighth of its kind globally, showcasing the company’s dedication to providing timely and accessible parts and services.

William Ampofo, Vice President of Parts & Distribution Services and Supply Chain at Boeing Global Services, highlighted the facility’s role in advancing Boeing planes strategy to deliver parts and services precisely when and where customers require them.

The decision to invest in this distribution center was initially announced during the Aero India event in February 2023, signaling Boeing 737 max 8 commitment to supporting growth and self-reliance objectives in India. boeing 787 Positioned strategically along India’s Eastern Freight Corridor, in proximity to Delhi and the upcoming Jewar airport, the distribution center reinforces Boeing 777 300er strategic positioning to contribute to India’s aviation industry expansion.

The new distribution center marks Boeing’s most recent development in India, following a series of substantial investments and agreements aimed at bolstering the growth of the civil aviation industry in the country. These initiatives encompass a partnership with GMR Aero Technic to establish a Boeing Converted Freighter line in Hyderabad and the establishment of a Global Support Center in Gurgaon. Additionally, Boeing has committed a $100 million investment in infrastructure and pilot training programs to support India’s growing demand for pilots in the coming two decades

Aerospace

When Ratan Tata was denied entry to the airfield at the Aero India show, he waited

During our visit to Aero India 2019, we had the unexpected opportunity to see Ratan Tata at the event, which was a thrilling moment for us. However, there was a surprising hiccup when the security staff didn’t allow him to enter due to a lack of a security pass.

Despite this, he remained calm and patiently waited for about 20 minutes until a member of the Tata team brought him the required pass, after which he calmly proceeded inside. It was a humbling sight, showcasing his composed demeanor even in such situations.

Ratan Tata ji is not only a renowned industrialist but also a trained pilot, holding a pilot’s license. In 2007, he became the first Indian civilian to fly the F-16 Falcon during the Aero India show in Bangalore—a proud moment for the nation.

His passion for aviation extended beyond flying, as he played a key role in shaping India’s aerospace industry. Under his leadership, Tata ventured into manufacturing and maintaining aerospace components while upholding its legacy of quality. Notably, Tata’s collaboration with Airbus to develop and manufacture the C295 aircraft is a testament to its growing influence in the sector.