Source: Mississippi Development Authority
Jackson, Miss. (October 18, 2023) – Skydweller Aero Inc. is bringing its flight test and aircraft modification operations to Hancock County. The project represents a corporate investment of $15 million, as well as $40 million in advanced solar powered aircraft inventory. The project will create at least 36 new jobs.
Skydweller Aero is a transatlantic cutting-edge aerospace company developing solar powered aircraft solutions capable of achieving perpetual flight with heavy and powerful payload capacity. Utilizing technology based upon the longest continuous renewably powered flight program in history, this fast-growing startup is developing a new class of unmanned aircraft, providing the persistence of geosynchronous satellites with the powerful sensing capabilities and the flexibility of a large, airborne platform. Skydweller Aero’s U.S. and global headquarters are in Oklahoma City, and it has European offices headquartered in Spain.
The Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX, as well as through the Airport Revitalization Revolving Loan Program. Hancock County is assisting with the construction of the hangar, and AccelerateMS is assisting with workforce training.
Construction is slated to begin in early November with operations expected to begin by the end of the year. For more information, visit www.skydweller.aero.
QUOTES
“The decision to locate these high-tech operations in Mississippi helps position our state for many more successful years as a leader in the aerospace industry. This fantastic investment from the Skydweller Aero team will provide dozens of new opportunities for the people of Hancock County and is further testament to our strong business environment and talented workforce.” – Gov. Tate Reeves
“MDA is glad to support Skydweller Aero as the company brings its solar-powered uncrewed aircraft manufacturing operations to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Encouraging an environment that makes Mississippi an attractive place to build and innovate is one of the best ways we can help ensure more companies like Skydweller Aero realize Mississippi is an ideal destination for business. I am proud of the efforts that helped secure this economic development win for Hancock County and look forward to the positive impacts this significant investment and 36 new jobs will have on the Gulf Coast Region.” – MDA Deputy Executive Director Laura Hipp
“Skydweller is excited to begin operating at Stennis International Airport and is grateful for the ongoing support from the state of Mississippi and Hancock County. The Southern hospitality shines bright, and we anticipate great success, with 2024 being a very busy year. Our recruitment has started strong, and our first newly recruited technician will travel to Spain later this month to start their on-the-job training and the transition of flight test operations to Stennis. We look forward to working with the local colleges and universities in developing the workforce opportunities in this unique field of aviation.” – Skydweller Aero CEO Robert Miller
“AccelerateMS is excited to welcome Skydweller Aero to Mississippi, and we look forward to partnering with the company as it creates opportunities for Mississippians to work in high-reward, high-tech jobs. We are delighted to see this investment in our people. We are confident our people are ready to invest themselves in making Skydweller Aero successful in Hancock County.” – AccelerateMS Executive Director Ryan Miller
“Stennis International Airport is proud to attract emerging technology with unmanned aerial systems to base operations in Hancock County. Skydweller Aero strengthens our position as the cornerstone of Mississippi’s aerospace industry.” – Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission CEO Blaine LaFontaine
“Hancock County welcomes Skydweller Aero and the largest unmanned aircraft to Stennis International Airport. Investments in our infrastructure and partnerships with Pearl River Community College will support the future of our aerospace cluster with companies like Skydweller Aero.” – Hancock County Board of Supervisors President Scotty Adam
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About Mississippi Development Authority
Mississippi Development Authority is the state’s lead economic and community development agency. MDA focuses on new business recruitment, existing business expansion, workforce training, and tourism promotion. For more information, visit MDA’s website at mississippi.org.
About Skydweller
Skydweller is a U.S.-headquartered multi-national aerospace startup developing solar powered aircraft solutions capable of achieving perpetual flight with the most powerful payload capacity. Utilizing technology based upon the longest, continuous solar powered flight program in history, it is creating a new class of unmanned aircraft, creating a more secure and connected world.