Dholera, Bhogapuram vie for Embraer’s final assembly line

Andhra Pradesh is vying for the Embraer production facility at the upcoming Bhogapuram Airport being constructed by the GMR Group.

The Brazilian plane-maker is in discussion with the Adani Group to build the final assembly for its E1 and E2 jets, which are operated by airlines around the world.

There is strong buzz that Dholera in Gujarat and Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh are potential contenders. Embraer and Adani Group are discussing project details, including investment quantum, site selection, and manufacturing plans.

“Gujarat is emerging as a hub for aircraft manufacturing with the inauguration of the final assembly line for Airbus C295 aircraft in Vadodara in 2024. A smart-industrial city is being developed at Dholera and it has already attracted Tata Group’s semiconductor plant,” said an industry expert.

While an Adani Group project at a GMR Group airport may sound unlikely, Andhra Pradesh is making a strong pitch. “Yes, we are keen, and Bhogapuram is very much on our radar,” said Nara Lokesh, Minister for IT, Electronics and Communications in Andhra Pradesh.

Concerted push
“The AP government has been proactively engaging with global aerospace OEMs and partners. We see strong strategic logic in positioning Bhogapuram as an aerospace and MRO hub alongside the international airport,” he added. “We are highlighting land availability, airside access, skilled talent pipeline, policy support, and long-term ecosystem development.”

Industry analysts, however, believe Dholera may be chosen for the aircraft production plant. A special purpose vehicle of state and central government is developing a greenfield international airport at Dholera, approximately 100 kilometres from Ahmedabad. The airport is expected to be operational by mid-2026, and an aerospace park is planned nearby to attract investment.

Embraer declined comment, while Adani and GMR groups did not respond to queries.

Currently, 50 Embraer aircraft of 11 different types operate in India across airlines, charter companies, and defence forces. Star Air operates nine E175 planes and is in talks to acquire 20 more.

Order book
Embraer manufactures the E-Jets in Brazil. As of last November, the company had a pending order book of 490 planes and delivered over 1,900. Embraer has set up a subsidiary in India for sourcing aircraft components and partnered with Mahindra Group to offer C-390 medium transport aircraft for the Air Force.

Experts note that a skilled workforce and regulatory approvals are critical. Investment feasibility will depend on production rates and commercial orders.