The Odisha government will set up a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) unit at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar. 

The facility will be set up in a newly constructed 4,670-sq. mtrs. hangar, which will be operated by a private entity selected through a government tender. Currently, aircraft operating from Bhubaneswar rely on external airports for maintenance, resulting in operational delays and additional costs. The new MRO will offer on-site repair services, reducing downtime for airlines and enhancing the airport's operational capabilities.

The facility will be able to accommodate large aircraft like the Airbus A321, as well as smaller aircraft, helicopters, and choppers. Approved by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the hangar has been handed over to the state government, which will manage the facility and pay monthly rent for its use. The apron and taxiway in front of the hangar will be utilised to streamline aircraft movement into the MRO unit. Discussions regarding operational modalities and rental agreements are currently underway. 

The MRO is expected to generate significant interest from both large and small maintenance firms, helping Bhubaneswar emerge as a regional aviation hub. With 52 daily arrivals and departures, the airport is poised for further expansion, and the MRO facility is set to play a critical role in ensuring efficient aircraft maintenance and boosting regional air connectivity in eastern India.