Singapore Model for port development, Minister Lokesh invites AirBus to setup MRO in Andhra

Hyderabad: To transform Andhra Pradesh into a logistics hub through a combination of ports, airports, and industrial corridors, state delegation led by chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu visiting Singapore studied how the Tuas Port model could offer relevant insights.

On the second day of his visit to Singapore, Naidu on Monday toured the iconic Tuas Port, currently under construction by the Singapore government. Set to become Asia’s second-largest container terminal, Tuas Port is a flagship maritime infrastructure project. The Chief Minister noted that with Andhra Pradesh having an extensive coastline, the coalition government is keen on attracting significant investments anchored around coastal development. Accordingly, the government is giving high priority to the development of ports and the establishment of port-led industries.

As part of this, the Chief Minister and his delegation visited Tuas Port to closely study its development model. During the visit, Naidu met Mr. Vincent, Regional CEO of the Port of Singapore Authority (PSA). The delegation engaged in detailed discussions with PSA officials on port construction, management, and operations.

Chief Minister Naidu inquired about the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in port operations and inspected the AI-driven automation systems deployed at Tuas Port. He also gathered insights on the total project cost, phased construction plans, and the operational strategy of the mega container terminal. According to CEO Vincent, the total project cost is estimated at Rs 1.70 lakh crore, and the construction is planned in four phases.

The Andhra Pradesh government is working on a strategic vision to develop a port every 50 km along its coastline. From construction to cargo handling, the government is planning to integrate automation and AI technologies in all aspects of port operations. To transform Andhra Pradesh into a logistics hub through a combination of ports, airports, and industrial corridors, the delegation studied how the Tuas model could offer relevant insights.

Naidu discussed with PSA officials how port-led industrialization and operational models are managed in Singapore. Deliberations were also held on potential partnerships to develop AP ports to international standards with Singapore’s collaboration.

The Chief Minister and his team explored Singapore’s approach to real-time cargo tracking, green port development, and the planning of auxiliary industries around port zones. They also studied how the Singapore model could guide the modernization of Andhra Pradesh’s ports. Discussions covered technology transfer, Singapore’s participation, and the possibility of joint ventures.

Accompanying the Chief Minister on this study tour of Tuas Port were Ministers Nara Lokesh, T.G. Bharat, and senior officials from the Andhra Pradesh government.

Minister Nara Lokesh invites Airbus to build MRO hub in Andhra

As part of his official visit to Singapore, Andhra Pradesh Minister for Education, IT, and Electronics, Nara Lokesh, held a key meeting with Anand Stanley, President of Airbus Asia Pacific, to discuss strategic opportunities in the aviation sector.

During the meeting, Minister Lokesh emphasized the need for a dedicated Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) hub in India and proposed Andhra Pradesh as the ideal location for such a facility. He pointed out that India has a high aircraft density, with growing demand from neighboring countries such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and the wider Southeast Asian market, making it a strong captive market for MRO services.

Highlighting the growth trajectory of Airbus in India, he noted that over 850 Airbus aircraft are currently operational in the country, and India is projected to require approximately 1,750 new aircraft over the next two decades. Airbus currently holds a 65–70% market share in India's commercial aviation sector, primarily dominated by the narrow-body A320 family.

Minister Lokesh underscored Andhra Pradesh's strategic potential to become South Asia's leading MRO hub, offering efficient service to both Indian and regional carriers. He assured that the state is ready to build a comprehensive, world-class MRO ecosystem, aligning with Singapore's high operational and maintenance standards.

"Our proposed MRO hub will significantly reduce ferry times and operational costs for Indian airlines and enhance aircraft availability. It also opens up opportunities for servicing aircraft from neighbouring nations, positioning Andhra Pradesh as a key regional player," said Minister Lokesh.

He extended a formal invitation to Mr. Anand Stanley to visit Andhra Pradesh and explore the infrastructure and policy support available to aviation industry leaders.