News Summary
SkyWest Airlines has announced Shreveport Regional Airport as its newest maintenance base, expected to create 525 jobs in the region. The facility will support nearly 500 regional aircraft and is projected to start operations by late 2025. Local officials praised the collaborative efforts that expedited the project and emphasized its importance for economic growth in Northwest Louisiana, particularly in the aerospace sector.
Shreveport, Louisiana
SkyWest Airlines has announced the selection of Shreveport Regional Airport as its newest maintenance base, a move projected to bring 525 jobs to the region. The announcement was made by Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux on May 6, following a thorough selection process that evaluated 30 potential locations across the United States.
The new facility, planned to support a fleet of nearly 500 regional aircraft operated by SkyWest, is expected to create 150 direct jobs at the hangar alone, with an average annual salary of $70,000. Additionally, approximately 375 indirect jobs are anticipated from the establishment of the maintenance base, resulting in a total of 525 new jobs for Northwest Louisiana.
The hangar, which will be SkyWest’s 13th maintenance base, is expected to be operational by the second half of 2025. This facility, located in a 152,000 square foot existing hangar built in 1983, previously hosted operations by Boeing, Continental Express, and Western Global Airlines. Officials from SkyWest expressed enthusiasm about the supportive response from the Shreveport community and the potential for increased service through airline partnerships.
Economic and Employment Impact
SkyWest Airlines operates through partnerships with several major airlines, including United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines. In 2024, the airline transported over 42 million passengers. The new maintenance base may lead to additional flight options under the aforementioned airlines, contributing to the development of new cities served due to aircraft rotations for maintenance.
The project has drawn significant support from local and state economic development entities. Total funding for the project includes a $250,000 performance-based grant from the Caddo Parish Industrial Development Board, matched by Louisiana Economic Development and Caddo Parish, bringing the total to $750,000. Furthermore, an additional grant of up to $200,000 from AEP/SWEPCO will assist with energy efficiency initiatives associated with the project.
Aerospace Development in Northwest Louisiana
North Louisiana Economic Partnership President Justyn Dixon highlighted the importance of investing in the aerospace sector for regional growth, while Shreveport Airport Authority Director Larry Blackwell believes that partnering with SkyWest will significantly benefit the local economy. With around 14,000 employees engaged through various airlines, SkyWest adds to the burgeoning aviation workforce in the area.
Governor Jeff Landry acknowledged SkyWest for recognizing the skilled workforce in Louisiana and lauded local stakeholders for their rapid coordination, facilitating the project within just 36 hours. These collaborative efforts underscore the commitment to fostering economic advancement within Northwest Louisiana through the aviation industry.
Background on SkyWest Airlines
SkyWest Airlines has become a significant player in the regional aviation market, providing essential services that connect local communities with major airline networks. This investment in Shreveport is not only a strategic move to bolster operational efficiency but also a boost for regional employment and economic diversification in the area.
As the region continues to develop its aerospace capabilities, initiatives like the maintenance base signify progress towards reinforcing Shreveport’s position as a vital hub in the aviation industry.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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
SkyWest Airlines Establishes New Maintenance Base in Shreveport
Shreveport Welcomes SkyWest Airlines Maintenance Base, Creating 525 Jobs
SkyWest Airlines to Open Maintenance Facility in Shreveport
Additional Resources
- KTAL News
- Shreveport Times
- The Advocate
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate
- Business Facilities
- Wikipedia: SkyWest Airlines
- Google Search: SkyWest Airlines
- Encyclopedia Britannica: SkyWest Airlines
- Google Scholar: SkyWest Airlines
- Google News: SkyWest Airlines
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.
