Cochin International Aviation Services Ltd (CIASL) has launched a Rs 0.5 billion scheme to turn Kochi into a national centre for aircraft maintenance. Chairman S Suhas broke ground for the company’s third maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) hangar and Kerala’s first covered aircraft parking apron at Cochin International Airport.

The 53,800 sq ft hangar—due for completion in eight months—will handle two narrow body jetliners simultaneously, plus business jets, helicopters and seaplanes. It adjoins the forthcoming CIASL Business Park and includes 7,000 sq ft of offices, component repair bays and non destructive testing labs.

A 350,000 sq ft enclosed apron alongside will shelter up to 13 narrow body aircraft, protecting high value assets from monsoon rains, heat and coastal corrosion while offering greater privacy for corporate operators.

Direct runway access will let aircraft taxi straight from the strip to the MRO complex, cutting ground handling time and costs—an edge unmatched elsewhere in Kerala.