- Global MRO Leaders Converge in New Delhi
- Yashobhoomi to Host Aerospace & Defence MRO Gathering
By SangeetaSaxena
New Delhi. 10 March 2026. The countdown has begun for one of South Asia’s most significant aviation industry gatherings as the 7th Aerospace & Defence MRO South Asia Summit 2026 prepares to open tomorrow at Yashobhoomi – India International Convention and Expo Centre in New Delhi.
Bringing together the region’s leading voices from the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) ecosystem, the summit will serve as a strategic platform for dialogue, innovation and collaboration in a rapidly evolving aerospace landscape. The event is expected to host over 500 delegates, including airline executives, defence officials, regulators, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), MRO service providers, technology innovators, and aviation policymakers.
Against the backdrop of India’s rapidly expanding aviation market and its ambitions to emerge as a global aviation maintenance hub, the summit will explore opportunities for investment, technological transformation and policy reforms shaping the future of aerospace and defence MRO in South Asia.
The Aerospace & Defence MRO South Asia Summit 2026 will focus on the strategic evolution of the region’s MRO ecosystem as airlines expand fleets, defence forces modernise platforms and new technologies transform aircraft maintenance operations.
Participants will gain strategic insights from industry decision-makers and policymakers, particularly on India’s growing role in the global MRO supply chain. Discussions will highlight recent policy developments such as the Aircraft Objects Bill and other reforms aimed at strengthening India’s MRO capabilities while attracting international investment into the sector.
Technology will also be a central theme of the summit. Industry leaders will explore how innovations such as artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, digital twins, and sustainable maintenance practices are redefining aircraft maintenance and operational efficiency.
The summit’s interactive format—including panel discussions, fast-track sessions, curated roundtables, and live technology showcases—will allow participants to engage directly with experts and explore real-world solutions for the challenges facing the aerospace maintenance industry.
Running alongside the summit, MRO XPO India will showcase the latest developments in civil aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. As India positions itself as a major global aviation hub, the exhibition aims to bring together airlines, OEMs, regulators, service providers, and technology innovators under one roof.
The exhibition will provide a platform for stakeholders to explore the rapidly expanding Indian MRO landscape, highlighting opportunities for investment, innovation and indigenous capability development.
Participants will be able to interact with leading global and regional companies presenting advanced solutions in predictive maintenance, parts lifecycle management, digital MRO platforms and sustainable maintenance practices.
With decision-makers from airlines, leasing companies, and airport operators expected to attend, MRO XPO India will serve as a valuable networking environment where industry partnerships and business opportunities can be explored. Another key event running parallel to the summit is Aircraft Interiors India 2026, an exhibition dedicated to innovations in aircraft cabin design and passenger experience.
As airlines compete to enhance passenger comfort and onboard services, aircraft interiors are becoming a strategic differentiator. The exhibition will showcase cutting-edge solutions in premium seating, lightweight materials, inflight entertainment and connectivity systems, and advanced cabin design technologies.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore developments in cabin management systems, lighting technologies, smart galleys, overhead storage solutions, lavatory systems, soft furnishings, and advanced materials used in aircraft interiors.
The exhibition will also feature suppliers specialising in in-flight entertainment and communications (IFEC), cabin environment systems, aircraft seating, textiles, flooring, soundproofing equipment, and passenger service systems. For airlines, designers, OEMs and interior specialists, the event will provide valuable insights into how comfort, sustainability and operational efficiency are shaping the future of passenger cabin experiences.
The Defence MRO XPO India 2026 will spotlight the critical role of maintenance readiness in strengthening national security and defence preparedness. The event will bring together representatives from the Indian Air Force, Indian Navy, Army Aviation Corps, defence public sector undertakings (PSUs), global defence OEMs, and private sector innovators. The exhibition will highlight India’s efforts to build a robust defence aviation maintenance ecosystem aligned with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India.
Participants will explore emerging technologies and strategies supporting fleet readiness, depot-level maintenance, avionics upgrades, engine maintenance and airframe support for military aircraft and helicopters. A key focus will be on dual-use technologies that bridge civil and defence aviation, as well as opportunities for public-private partnerships in strengthening India’s defence MRO capabilities.
The event will also showcase indigenous solutions for components, spares, repair capabilities and advanced maintenance technologies supporting combat aircraft and rotary-wing platforms. As the doors open tomorrow at Yashobhoomi, the 7th Aerospace & Defence MRO South Asia Summit 2026 promises to become a landmark event for the region’s aviation and defence maintenance ecosystem.
By bringing together policy leaders, global aviation companies, defence organisations and technology innovators, the event will provide a comprehensive view of the future of aircraft maintenance and operational readiness in South Asia.
Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) is the backbone of the aviation industry, ensuring that aircraft remain safe, reliable, and operational throughout their service life. Every commercial or military aircraft must undergo regular inspections, component repairs, system upgrades, and scheduled maintenance to meet strict aviation safety standards set by global regulators. A robust MRO ecosystem not only enhances flight safety but also improves operational efficiency by reducing aircraft downtime and extending the lifespan of critical components such as engines, avionics, and airframes. As global fleets expand and airlines seek to optimise costs and reliability, the importance of advanced MRO capabilities—supported by digital technologies, predictive maintenance, and skilled engineering manpower—has become even more critical in sustaining the growth and resilience of the aviation sector.
With India poised to emerge as a global hub for aviation services and defence manufacturing, the summit and its parallel exhibitions—MRO XPO India, Aircraft Interiors India, and Defence MRO XPO India—are expected to play a vital role in shaping industry collaboration, technological innovation and investment opportunities across the aerospace and defence sectors. The stage is set for a dynamic exchange of ideas and partnerships as the aviation community gathers in New Delhi to shape the next chapter of the Aerospace & Defence MRO ecosystem in South Asia.
