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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Skydweller Aero Plans Hancock County, Mississippi, Flight Test-Aircraft Modification Operations

10/20/2023
Skydweller Aero Inc., a transatlantic aerospace company developing solar powered aircraft, plans to establish its flight test and aircraft modification operations in Hancock County, Mississippi. The $15 million project is expected to create approximately 36 jobs.

The new facility, located at the Stennis International Airport, is scheduled to be operational by the end of the year.

“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,” said Skydweller Aero CEO Robert Miller.

The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) is providing assistance through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX, as well as through the Airport Revitalization Revolving Loan Program. In addition, 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.

“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 noted.

Oklahoma City-based Skydweller is a US-Spanish aerospace company developing solar powered aircraft solutions capable of achieving perpetual flight with the highest—and most meaningful—payload capacity. The company is developing a new class of unmanned aircraft, providing the persistence of geosynchronous satellites with the powerful sensing capabilities and range of a large, airborne platform.

“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 added.

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