Andhra to build India’s first aviation, aerospace education city at Bhogapuram

Andhra Pradesh has announced plans to develop the country’s first fully integrated Aviation, Aerospace, and Defense Education City at Bhogapuram in the Vizianagaram district, near the upcoming ASR International Airport.

The project, to be developed as the GMR-MANSAS Aviation EduCity, is intended to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in aviation and related sectors in India and overseas, officials said.

An MoU formalizing the initiative was exchanged between MANSAS Trust Chairperson Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju and GMR Airports Chairperson GBS Raju in the presence of Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu and Andhra Pradesh IT and Human Resources Development Minister Nara Lokesh.

Spread across about 136 acres, the EduCity will provide specialized education and training in aviation, aerospace, and defense disciplines.

Officials said the project is aimed at strengthening India’s position as a global hub for trained aviation manpower.

The campus is planned as an integrated ecosystem combining academics, research, and industry.

It will host international branch campuses, globally reputed universities, and certification programs aligned with DGCA, EASA, and other international aviation standards.

Speaking at the event, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu referred to the rapid expansion of the civil aviation sector and stressed the need for strong institutional partnerships.

He said trial runs at the Bhogapuram airport would begin within a month, with inauguration scheduled for July.

Nara Lokesh said the initiative fits into Andhra Pradesh’s long-term focus on skill development and advanced technology.

He added that Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu aims to make Telugus 25% of the global civil aviation workforce.

Officials said the EduCity will also house research centers focused on unmanned aerial vehicles, sustainable aviation, safety, and artificial intelligence, along with incubation and startup facilities.

Its proximity to the international airport is expected to support hands-on training and real-world industry exposure.