Shreveport, August 29, 2025
News Summary
SkyWest Airlines has announced Shreveport as the site for its new maintenance base, projected to create approximately 525 jobs in the local area. The facility will support nearly 500 regional aircraft and is backed by various local organizations. Operations are set to commence in 2025, with a focus on enhancing the local aerospace and logistics sectors. Mayor Tom Arceneaux highlighted the positive impact on employment and regional connectivity, while economic collaborations aim for further growth in the area.
Shreveport Announces SkyWest Airlines Maintenance Base
Shreveport has been chosen by SkyWest Airlines as the location for its new maintenance base, which will generate approximately 525 jobs in the region. The announcement was made at Government Plaza on Tuesday, May 6, 2023. The project is backed by several organizations, including the North Louisiana Economic Partnership and Louisiana Economic Development.
The new maintenance facility will be designed to support SkyWest’s fleet of nearly 500 regional aircraft, catering to the operational needs of major airlines such as American, Delta, and United. According to Louisiana Economic Development, the facility is expected to create about 150 direct new jobs with an average salary of $70,000, a rate roughly 27% higher than the average wage in the parish. Additionally, the project is projected to lead to 375 indirect new jobs, which would bring the total number of new jobs in Northwest Louisiana to around 525.
Governor Jeff Landry praised the collaborative efforts among various stakeholders to enhance local economies and improve employment opportunities as part of Louisiana’s strategic plan. This initiative specifically targets the aerospace and logistics sectors, identifying them as priorities for economic development.
Facility Operations and Logistics
The Shreveport hangar will function as SkyWest’s 13th maintenance base, with operations slated to begin in the second half of 2025. The maintenance facility will occupy Hangar 40 at Shreveport Regional Airport, which is currently in use by Western Global Airlines. This airline is set to relocate to Hangar 5 to accommodate SkyWest’s operations.
The decision to locate the maintenance base in Shreveport was influenced by a competitive package of incentives from Louisiana Economic Development, which includes workforce development solutions and financial grants aimed at bolstering the local economy. The Shreveport Airport Authority’s director noted that a total of 30 different cities were considered during the selection process for this facility.
Community Impact and Future Prospects
Mayor Tom Arceneaux expressed optimism regarding the impact this project will have on local employment and regional connectivity. The arrival of SkyWest is expected to create numerous job opportunities, particularly for candidates emerging from local educational programs and those affiliated with Barksdale Air Force Base.
Furthermore, there is significant potential for further development at the Shreveport Regional Airport to attract additional aviation companies in the future. The local community has warmly welcomed SkyWest, anticipating that the new maintenance base will contribute to economic growth and job creation in the area. NLEP CEO Justyn Dixon emphasized the importance of collaboration among local organizations in fostering economic advancement.
Job Creation Overview
| Job Type | Estimated Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Jobs | 150 | $70,000 |
| Indirect Jobs | 375 | N/A |
| Total Jobs | 525 | N/A |
Conclusion
The establishment of SkyWest Airlines’ maintenance base at Shreveport Regional Airport not only marks a substantial investment in the local economy but also signifies a leap forward in employment opportunities and economic diversification for Northwest Louisiana.
FAQ
What is the purpose of SkyWest Airlines’ new maintenance base in Shreveport?
The new maintenance base will support SkyWest Airlines’ fleet of regional aircraft, enhance operational efficiency, and create jobs in the local community.
How many jobs will the new maintenance base create?
The project is expected to generate approximately 525 jobs, including 150 direct jobs and 375 indirect jobs.
When will the new maintenance operations start?
Operations at the new maintenance facility are anticipated to commence in the second half of 2025.
What support has the project received?
The project has received support from various organizations, including competitive incentives and workforce development solutions from Louisiana Economic Development.
Which hangar will SkyWest occupy?
SkyWest will utilize Hangar 40 at Shreveport Regional Airport, which is currently occupied by Western Global Airlines.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Louisiana Launches High Impact Jobs Program to Boost Employment
New Economic Development Initiatives Announced in Shreveport
Shreveport, Louisiana Experiences Economic Growth
Economic Outlook for Shreveport-Bossier Highlights Job Growth and Risks
BPCC Launches New Job Training Program EMPWR LA
SkyWest Airlines Chooses Shreveport for New Maintenance Base
SkyWest Airlines Chooses Shreveport as New Maintenance Base
SkyWest Airlines to Open New Maintenance Facility in Shreveport
SkyWest Airlines Chooses Shreveport Regional Airport for Maintenance Facility
Shreveport Launches New SkyWest Airlines Maintenance Base
Additional Resources
- KTBS: First Cup with First News Southern Air
- KSLA: Organizations Announce New Economic Development Caddo Parish
- Shreveport Times: Ideal Winter Thermostat Settings
- USA Today: Winter Storm Weather Updates
- Shreveport Times: Content Link
- Wikipedia: Economic Development
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
