Noida, March 13, 2026:
In a significant development for India’s aviation sector, Noida International Airport (NIA) and Akasa Air have announced a strategic partnership to establish the airline’s first Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility at the upcoming Noida International Airport. The collaboration marks an important milestone in strengthening India’s aviation infrastructure and supporting the long-term growth of the industry.
Under the agreement, Akasa Air will operate a state-of-the-art MRO facility within the airport premises. The facility will provide advanced aircraft maintenance services designed to support various operational requirements while maintaining high standards of efficiency and safety.
The initiative is expected to enhance operational capabilities, create local employment opportunities, and contribute to skill development in the aviation sector. Officials said the partnership will also help build an integrated aviation ecosystem around the airport, supporting industry growth and contributing to the regional economy.
Strengthening India’s Aviation Infrastructure
The partnership reflects a shared commitment between Noida International Airport and Akasa Air to position the airport as one of India’s key MRO hubs. The move aligns with the broader vision of the Government of India and the Government of Uttar Pradesh to develop strong domestic capabilities in aircraft maintenance services.
By establishing advanced MRO infrastructure within the airport complex, the collaboration aims to reduce dependence on overseas maintenance facilities and support the development of self-reliant aviation services in India.
Statement from Noida International Airport
Christoph Schnellmann, Chief Executive Officer of Noida International Airport, said the decision by Akasa Air to set up its first MRO facility at the airport reinforces the vision of building a world-class aviation hub in India.
He stated that the partnership will not only enhance the country’s MRO capabilities but also generate new opportunities for skill development and employment in the region. According to him, the project represents a major step toward strengthening aviation infrastructure and supporting the industry’s long-term growth.
Akasa Air Highlights Long-Term Growth Vision
Vinay Dube, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Akasa Air, said the partnership with Noida International Airport reflects the airline’s long-term growth strategy.
He noted that India’s aviation market is expanding at an unprecedented pace, making the development of strong domestic MRO capabilities critical for airlines to operate efficiently and reliably at scale. For Akasa Air, early investment in this capability is part of a disciplined growth strategy aimed at strengthening its operational framework while contributing to the development of a more self-reliant aviation ecosystem in the country.
About Akasa Air
Akasa Air aims to become one of India’s most trusted airlines by offering warm and efficient customer service, reliable operations, and affordable fares—an approach the airline refers to as the “Akasa Way.”
The airline’s youthful brand identity, employee-focused philosophy, technology-driven approach, and service-oriented culture form the foundation of its operational strategy.
Since its launch in August 2022, Akasa Air has served more than 25 million passengers and currently connects 26 domestic and 6 international destinations.
As part of its long-term expansion plan, the airline has placed an order for 226 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, powered by fuel-efficient LEAP-1B engines. At present, Akasa Air operates 35 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, which are designed to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
The aircraft also feature cabins that generate up to 40 percent less noise, making the airline’s fleet one of the youngest and most environmentally friendly in India’s aviation sector.
About Noida International Airport
Noida International Airport, with the IATA code DXN, is being developed to connect Delhi-NCR and western Uttar Pradesh with major cities across India and the world. The airport aims to offer a world-class passenger experience by combining Swiss operational efficiency with Indian hospitality.
The project is designed with sustainable development principles and is committed to achieving ambitious net-zero emissions targets.
Yamuna International Airport Private Limited (YIAPL) has been established to develop, construct, and operate the greenfield airport project. YIAPL is a wholly owned subsidiary of Zurich Airport International AG and is implementing the project as a public-private partnership in collaboration with the Government of Uttar Pradesh and the Government of India.
The concession period for the airport began on October 1, 2021, and will extend for 40 years. At the time of inauguration, the airport will feature one runway and one terminal, with an initial capacity to handle 12 million passengers annually. The infrastructure is designed for future expansion as passenger traffic grows.
Toward a Stronger Aviation Ecosystem
Officials believe that the establishment of the MRO facility will play a key role in strengthening India’s aviation maintenance capabilities while supporting the operational needs of airlines. The partnership between Noida International Airport and Akasa Air represents a major step toward building a robust aviation ecosystem that integrates infrastructure development, technical expertise, and economic growth in the region.
