Pinal County sees Surge in Aviation Related Development

Arizona's aerospace industry has been a cornerstone of the state's economy, with the Aeronautical Repair Station Association placing Arizona among the top two states for aviation maintenance economic activity. While Greater Phoenix and Tucson host many companies in this sector, Pinal County has recently experienced significant growth in aviation-related developments, attracting companies like Win Aviation and Ascent Aviation Services.

Hennie van Niekerk, pre-construction manager at Alston Construction, cites several reasons for the growth of Arizona's aviation industry. The state's low humidity and minimal rainfall reduce the risk of aircraft corrosion and weather-related damage, making it an attractive location for building hangars.

"Arizona is known for being business-friendly, offering various tax incentives and favorable regulations to attract and retain businesses. These incentives can encourage private hangar development by lowering the financial burden on developers and operators," van Niekerk writes in an email.

Pinal County sees Surge in Aviation Related Development


Win Aviation is one of the companies investing in Pinal County. Alston Construction is building a new 36,000-square-foot hangar at Coolidge Municipal Airport for Win Aviation's maintenance operations.

"[Win Aviation] buys aircraft from the military, leases them back, and handles the maintenance in between," van Niekerk continues. "They have about 28 aircraft and pilots who fly them. When the planes need major repairs, they either come to Arizona or go to their headquarters in Illinois."

The hangar is unique because it has airside access via the taxiway.

"The hangar has a concrete apron in front, as well as hangar doors in both the front and back," van Niekerk explains. "This allows [Win Aviation] to move aircraft from the front to the back, which is uncommon."

Pinal Airpark  

Southeast of Coolidge Municipal Airport lies Pinal Air Park, where Ascent Aviation Services has recently undertaken a significant expansion. The $55 million project will add 180,000 square feet to the company’s hangar capacity, along with an additional 60,000 square feet for storage and shop space. This new facility will be used to convert two lines of Boeing B777-300ER aircraft for Israel Aerospace Industries, creating over 300 new jobs.

“This investment not only enhances our aerospace capabilities but also highlights the collaborative and regional spirit of our community,” says Joe Snell, president and CEO of Sun Corridor Inc., in a press release. “Together, we are positioning Southern Arizona as a leader in aviation innovation, driving economic growth and prosperity for generations to come.”

Scott Butler, chief commercial officer for Ascent Aviation Services, explains that the company will gut existing passenger aircraft, reinforce structural areas, and install a larger door to accommodate cargo. Following these modifications, a heavy maintenance check will be conducted, and the plane will be recertified for cargo operations.

“There are freighters delivered directly from Boeing, but they cost as much as a brand-new aircraft,” Butler explains. “Our business model is to take a mid-lifecycle aircraft—typically 15 to 20 years old for a wide-body plane—and convert it to cargo, extending its service life by another two decades or more.”

Arizona’s strong aviation industry makes it an appealing location for expanding operations, Butler continues.

“As a company, you don’t want to be isolated,” he says. “You need an ecosystem that can support you. This includes not only workers and infrastructure but also a supportive government partner like Pinal Airpark and the county to help remove obstacles.”

Having an existing supply chain is also advantageous, especially when Ascent Aviation Services needs to quickly turn around aircraft.

“Many of our vendors are located in Arizona or nearby,” Butler says. “There are several companies in Phoenix and Tucson that can support us with different aircraft needs. Luke Air Force Base and Davis-Monthan Air Force Base provide a pipeline, with people innovating and starting their own companies here.”

Construction Quirks 

Every project comes with its own set of challenges, but building at an airport presents unique difficulties. Jim Petty, airport operations manager at Pinal Airpark, points out that nearly any construction at the airport involves the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

“If a project alters the airport layout plan, it must be environmentally cleared,” he explains. “Depending on the size and scope of the project, this can be as simple as writing an email.”

Construction may require a categorical exclusion, where the company fills out a document addressing environmental concerns such as archaeological hotspots, endangered species, and wetlands. Petty notes that the categorical exclusion process for Ascent Aviation Services’ project took nearly three months, whereas an environmental impact statement—the most comprehensive process—can take up to three years to get approval.

Safety is another primary concern for the FAA, which must approve a safety plan before any construction can begin.

“They review the safety plan and either accept it or suggest changes,” Petty says. “This ensures safe use of runway facilities with proper signage and barricades during construction. For a project like Ascent’s, we have to submit a notice of proposed construction to the FAA, including the latitude and longitude of the buildings and their heights. The FAA assesses whether the structure will impact airport flights or require illumination if it's tall.”

Dean Howard, director of business development at Alston Construction, adds that building at an airport requires coordination with multiple stakeholders, including FAA, airport, and city officials. Transporting construction materials in and out of the airport is more challenging than at a typical job site, and security concerns may necessitate worker escorts onto the premises.

“The regulations and bureaucracies involved can get technical, whether you’re working at a large airport like Sky Harbor or smaller municipal airports. There’s an extra level of caution and nuances we must be familiar with,” he continues.

From an economic development perspective, Howard is optimistic about Pinal County and sees it as a region poised for continued growth.

“We’ve learned the importance of having a diverse economy, and Pinal County is currently the hot spot for development,” he concludes. “With Lucid Motors, LG Energy Solution already there, and many other companies looking to locate there, Pinal County is becoming one of the most diverse markets in the state.”

Key Drivers of Aviation Growth in Pinal County

Pinal County's recent surge in aviation-related development can be attributed to several key drivers, which are fostering a robust and dynamic aviation sector.

Strategic Location

Proximity to Major Cities: Pinal County's location between Phoenix and Tucson offers significant logistical advantages. Businesses benefit from the accessibility to major urban centers, facilitating smooth operations and efficient supply chains.

Central Transportation Hub: The county's central location within Arizona makes it a pivotal transportation hub, providing easy access to national and international markets.

Investment in Infrastructure

Airport Expansions: Substantial investments in expanding regional airports have increased capacity and enhanced capabilities, attracting more aviation companies to the area.

Advanced Facilities: The development of state-of-the-art facilities, including maintenance hangars, training centers, and research labs, supports the growth and innovation of the aviation industry in Pinal County.

Transportation Network: Improved road and rail networks complement the aviation infrastructure, ensuring seamless connectivity and efficient logistics.

Government Incentives

Tax Benefits: Local and state governments offer attractive tax incentives to aviation companies, encouraging them to establish operations in Pinal County.

Grants and Subsidies: Financial support in the form of grants and subsidies helps aviation businesses reduce initial setup costs and foster growth.

Streamlined Regulations: Proactive government policies and streamlined regulatory processes make it easier for aviation companies to navigate legal requirements and expedite project implementation.

Skilled Workforce

Educational Institutions: The presence of renowned educational institutions offering specialized aviation programs ensures a steady supply of skilled professionals.

Training Programs: Collaborative training programs between industry and academia help develop a workforce equipped with the latest skills and knowledge.

Experienced Talent Pool: Pinal County attracts experienced professionals from across the country, drawn by the region's growing reputation in the aviation sector.

Economic Stability

Diverse Economy: Pinal County's diverse economy provides a stable foundation for the aviation sector, with strong support from other industries such as manufacturing, technology, and logistics.

Investment Climate: A favorable investment climate, characterized by economic stability and growth prospects, makes Pinal County an attractive destination for aviation businesses.

Innovation and Technology

Research and Development: Ongoing research and development initiatives within the county drive innovation, leading to the adoption of cutting-edge technologies in the aviation sector.

Emerging Technologies: The integration of emerging technologies, such as unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and advanced avionics, positions Pinal County at the forefront of aviation innovation.

Major Aviation Projects in Pinal County

Pinal County has become a hub for significant aviation projects, transforming the region into a central player in the aerospace industry. These projects range from airport expansions to the establishment of aerospace hubs, each contributing to the county's growing prominence in aviation.

Expansion of Regional Airports

Pinal Airpark Expansion: Pinal Airpark, one of the county's key aviation assets, has undergone extensive expansion. The addition of new runways, maintenance facilities, and hangars has increased its capacity to accommodate a larger number of aircraft, enhancing its operational capabilities.

Casa Grande Municipal Airport Upgrades: The Casa Grande Municipal Airport has seen significant upgrades, including runway extensions, modernized air traffic control systems, and improved passenger amenities. These enhancements have positioned the airport as a critical regional transportation hub.

Establishment of Aerospace Hubs

Pinal County Aerospace Innovation Hub: The creation of the Pinal County Aerospace Innovation Hub is a landmark project. This hub is designed to foster collaboration between industry leaders, academic institutions, and government agencies. It serves as a center for research, development, and testing of advanced aerospace technologies.

Aerospace Business Park: The development of an aerospace business park adjacent to Pinal Airpark has attracted numerous aviation companies. This business park offers state-of-the-art facilities for aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, and repair operations.

Development of Training Centers

Aviation Training Academy: Pinal County has established an Aviation Training Academy to address the growing demand for skilled aviation professionals. This academy offers comprehensive training programs in aircraft maintenance, piloting, and air traffic control, ensuring a steady supply of qualified personnel for the industry.

Flight Simulation Center: A cutting-edge flight simulation center has been developed to provide realistic training experiences for pilots and air traffic controllers. Equipped with the latest simulation technology, this center enhances training efficiency and safety.

Research and Development Initiatives

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Research Facility: Pinal County has invested in a dedicated research facility for unmanned aerial systems. This facility focuses on the development and testing of UAS technologies, positioning the county as a leader in this rapidly evolving sector.

Advanced Avionics Laboratory: An advanced avionics laboratory has been established to drive innovation in aircraft electronics and communication systems. This laboratory supports research projects aimed at improving the safety, efficiency, and reliability of aviation technology.

Collaborative Projects

Public-Private Partnerships: Pinal County has leveraged public-private partnerships to fund and develop major aviation projects. These collaborations have attracted significant investment and expertise from both the public and private sectors, accelerating the county's aviation growth.

Industry-Academia Collaborations: The county has fostered strong collaborations between aviation companies and academic institutions. These partnerships facilitate joint research projects, internships, and workforce development programs, ensuring a continuous pipeline of innovation and talent.

Economic Impact of Aviation Development

The surge in aviation-related development in Pinal County is having a profound impact on the local economy. From job creation to increased economic activity, the aviation sector is a major contributor to the county’s prosperity.

Job Creation

Direct Employment: The expansion of aviation facilities and the establishment of aerospace hubs have directly created numerous jobs. These positions range from skilled technical roles in aircraft maintenance and manufacturing to administrative and support roles.

Indirect Employment: The growth of the aviation sector has also led to increased employment in related industries, such as transportation, logistics, hospitality, and retail. This multiplier effect ensures that the benefits of aviation development extend beyond the industry itself.

Training and Education: New training centers and educational programs have been established to meet the demand for skilled workers, providing job opportunities for instructors and support staff, and preparing a future workforce for the aviation industry.

Boost to Local Economy

Increased Business Activity: The influx of aviation companies and related businesses has significantly increased local business activity. This includes the growth of service providers such as maintenance firms, parts suppliers, and consultancy services.

Higher Spending Power: The creation of well-paying jobs in the aviation sector has led to increased spending power among local residents. This boost in disposable income supports local businesses, from restaurants and shops to real estate and entertainment venues.

Tourism and Hospitality: The development of regional airports and improved air connectivity have made Pinal County more accessible to tourists and business travelers. This has led to growth in the hospitality sector, with more hotels, restaurants, and recreational facilities being developed.

Infrastructure Development

Transportation Networks: The expansion of aviation infrastructure has spurred improvements in the county’s overall transportation network, including roads, railways, and public transit systems. These enhancements benefit all residents and businesses by improving connectivity and reducing travel times.

Utility Upgrades: The increased demand for utilities such as water, electricity, and telecommunications services has driven upgrades and expansions of these essential services, supporting both aviation and other industries.

Innovation and Technology Advancement

Research and Development: The establishment of research facilities and innovation hubs has positioned Pinal County as a center for aerospace technology development. This attracts high-tech companies and fosters a culture of innovation, benefiting the wider economy.

Start-up Ecosystem: The presence of major aviation projects and innovation hubs has nurtured a vibrant start-up ecosystem. New businesses in fields such as unmanned aerial systems (UAS), avionics, and aerospace engineering are emerging, contributing to economic diversity and resilience.

Revenue Generation

Tax Revenues: The growth of the aviation sector has led to increased tax revenues for local and state governments. These funds are reinvested in community services, infrastructure, education, and healthcare, improving the quality of life for residents.

Business Investments: The influx of aviation companies has attracted significant private investment in the county. This includes investments in new facilities, technology, and workforce development, which stimulate further economic growth.

Community Benefits

Quality of Life: The economic benefits of aviation development translate into improved public services, better infrastructure, and more recreational opportunities, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

Educational Opportunities: The collaboration between aviation businesses and educational institutions provides residents with access to specialized training and education, leading to higher employment rates and better career prospects.

Future Prospects for Pinal County's Aviation Sector

Pinal County's aviation sector is poised for continued growth and innovation. The future prospects for the region are promising, driven by ongoing investments, emerging technologies, and strategic initiatives aimed at solidifying its position as a key player in the aerospace industry.

Continued Investment and Development

Ongoing Infrastructure Expansion: Pinal County is set to continue its robust infrastructure expansion. Future projects include further airport enhancements, new aviation facilities, and the development of additional aerospace business parks. These investments will increase capacity and attract more aviation companies to the region.

Public-Private Partnerships: Strengthening public-private partnerships will play a crucial role in funding and developing new projects. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, private investors, and aviation businesses will ensure sustained growth and innovation.

Adoption of Emerging Technologies

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS): The integration of unmanned aerial systems is expected to revolutionize the local aviation landscape. Pinal County's dedicated UAS research facility will lead advancements in drone technology, fostering new business opportunities and applications in various industries, from agriculture to logistics.

Advanced Avionics and Automation: The adoption of advanced avionics and automation technologies will enhance the efficiency, safety, and reliability of aviation operations. Pinal County's focus on R&D will drive the development and implementation of these cutting-edge technologies.

Sustainable Aviation: The future will see a growing emphasis on sustainable aviation practices. Pinal County is likely to invest in green technologies, such as electric and hybrid aircraft, sustainable fuel alternatives, and eco-friendly airport operations, aligning with global trends towards sustainability.

Workforce Development and Education

Expanding Training Programs: To meet the increasing demand for skilled aviation professionals, Pinal County will continue to expand its training programs. New courses and certifications in emerging fields, such as UAS operations and advanced avionics, will be introduced to equip the workforce with the necessary skills.

Industry-Academia Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships between aviation companies and educational institutions will ensure a steady pipeline of talent. Collaborative research projects, internships, and on-the-job training programs will provide students with hands-on experience and enhance their employability.

Economic Diversification

Growth of Supporting Industries: As the aviation sector grows, supporting industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and technology will also expand. This economic diversification will reduce dependence on any single industry and create a more resilient local economy.

Attracting New Businesses: Pinal County's reputation as an aviation hub will attract businesses from related sectors, including aerospace engineering, parts manufacturing, and aviation services. This influx of new businesses will drive economic growth and create additional job opportunities.

Regional and Global Connectivity

Enhanced Air Connectivity: Future airport expansions and improvements will enhance regional and global connectivity. Increased flight frequencies and new routes will facilitate business travel, tourism, and trade, further integrating Pinal County into the global economy.

Logistics and Freight Services: Pinal County's strategic location and enhanced air connectivity will position it as a key logistics and freight hub. The development of specialized cargo facilities and services will support the efficient movement of goods, boosting trade and commerce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is driving the surge in aviation-related development in Pinal County?

The surge is driven by several factors, including strategic investments in infrastructure, the county's advantageous location between major cities, government incentives, a skilled workforce, and the adoption of emerging technologies in the aviation sector.

What major aviation projects are currently underway in Pinal County?

Major projects include the expansion of Pinal Airpark and Casa Grande Municipal Airport, the establishment of the Pinal County Aerospace Innovation Hub, the development of an aerospace business park, and the creation of aviation training centers and research facilities for unmanned aerial systems and advanced avionics.

How is aviation development impacting the local economy?

Aviation development is boosting the local economy by creating jobs, increasing business activity, enhancing infrastructure, and generating tax revenues. It also supports related industries, such as transportation, logistics, hospitality, and retail, through a multiplier effect.

What types of job opportunities are being created by the aviation sector in Pinal County?

The aviation sector is creating a wide range of job opportunities, including skilled technical positions in aircraft maintenance and manufacturing, administrative and support roles, training and educational jobs, and positions in related industries such as logistics and hospitality.

How is Pinal County preparing for future growth in the aviation sector?

Pinal County is preparing for future growth by continuing to invest in infrastructure, fostering public-private partnerships, expanding training programs, collaborating with educational institutions, and focusing on the adoption of emerging technologies such as unmanned aerial systems and sustainable aviation practices.

What role do government incentives play in attracting aviation businesses to Pinal County?

Government incentives, including tax benefits, grants, subsidies, and streamlined regulatory processes, play a significant role in attracting aviation businesses to Pinal County. These incentives reduce the initial setup costs and create a favorable business environment for companies in the aviation sector.

How are emerging technologies influencing the aviation industry in Pinal County?

Emerging technologies, such as unmanned aerial systems (UAS), advanced avionics, automation, and sustainable aviation practices, are revolutionizing the aviation industry in Pinal County. These technologies enhance operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability, driving innovation and new business opportunities.

Conclusion 

Pinal County's surge in aviation-related development marks a transformative period for the region, positioning it as a prominent hub in the aerospace industry. Driven by strategic investments, government support, and a favorable business environment, the county has witnessed significant advancements in infrastructure, technology adoption, and workforce development.

The expansion of regional airports, establishment of aerospace hubs like the Pinal County Aerospace Innovation Hub, and development of cutting-edge research facilities underscore Pinal County's commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration within the aviation sector. These initiatives not only create job opportunities across various skill levels but also stimulate economic growth through increased business activity and enhanced regional connectivity.

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