News Summary
Shreveport, Louisiana, is set to welcome a new maintenance base for SkyWest Airlines, which will create 525 jobs, including 150 direct roles at an average salary of $70,000. This significant economic boost results from collaboration among various stakeholders and aligns with Louisiana’s efforts to enhance its aerospace sector. Operations are expected to begin in late 2025 at Shreveport Regional Airport, marking the company’s 13th maintenance facility.
Shreveport Welcomes SkyWest Airlines Maintenance Base, Creating 525 Jobs
Shreveport, Louisiana, will soon be home to a new maintenance base for SkyWest Airlines, a development that is anticipated to generate 525 new jobs for the Northwest Region of the state. The announcement was made on May 6, 2023, at Government Plaza, marking a significant economic boost for the local area.
The project will provide 150 direct new jobs at the maintenance facility, which will support SkyWest’s fleet of nearly 500 regional aircraft. The average annual salary for these positions is projected to be $70,000, which is approximately 27% higher than the average wage in Caddo Parish. In addition, Louisiana Economic Development estimates that there will be 375 indirect jobs created, bringing the potential total to 525 new jobs.
Overview of the Project and Collaboration
The successful development of this maintenance base has been made possible through a collaborative effort involving multiple stakeholders, including the North Louisiana Economic Partnership, Shreveport Regional Airport, Caddo Parish, City of Shreveport, SWEPCO AEP, and the Caddo Industrial Development Board.
Governor Jeff Landry emphasized the role of local economic collaboration in attracting SkyWest Airlines to Shreveport. The project is in line with Louisiana Economic Development’s strategic plan to enhance the state’s aerospace and logistics sectors, leveraging Louisiana’s established history in aviation and aerospace.
Economic Impact and Competitive Advantages
SkyWest’s project is expected to have a substantial economic impact, contributing to a more dynamic economy in Louisiana. With over 8,000 Louisianans currently employed in the aerospace and defense industry, the new jobs at SkyWest will further strengthen this sector. Reports indicate that Shreveport has a skilled workforce, access to five of the nation’s largest ports, and a lower cost of doing business, making it an attractive location for aviation-related enterprises.
SkyWest’s maintenance base will mark the company’s 13th maintenance facility, slated to begin operations in the second half of 2025. The hangar will be located in the Shreveport Regional Airport’s Hangar 40, which is currently occupied by Western Global Airlines. This transition will involve Western Global Airlines moving to Hangar 5.
Support and Incentives
The project has been supported by a competitive incentives package from Louisiana Economic Development, highlighting the state’s commitment to enhancing local economic growth. This includes a $750,000 performance-based grant, which incorporates matching funds from LED, Caddo Parish, and the Caddo Parish Industrial Development Board. Additionally, an energy efficiency grant of up to $200,000 has been provided by AEP SWEPCO.
Educational Pathways and Future Prospects
The local employment landscape is expected to benefit significantly from graduates of programs offered at Southern University at Shreveport and from nearby Barksdale Air Force Base. This alignment with educational institutions demonstrates the potential for workforce development tailored to meet the needs of the aviation industry.
Furthermore, developments at Shreveport Regional Airport may see additional aviation-related opportunities arise, attracting more airline interests to the area. The selection of Shreveport for this essential facility reflects the airport’s potential as a hub for aviation and logistics operations.
Conclusion
The establishment of SkyWest’s maintenance base in Shreveport signifies a pivotal step forward in the region’s economic development and presents promising job opportunities for local residents. With robust support, strategic collaborations, and a commitment to workforce development, the future looks bright for aviation in Northwest Louisiana.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
SkyWest Airlines to Open Maintenance Facility in Shreveport
Additional Resources
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate
- Wikipedia: Aerospace Industry
- KSLA News
- Google Search: Aviation Economic Impact
- KSLA News Source
- Google Scholar: Economic Development in Aviation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aviation
- Google News: Shreveport
