2023 In Review
As we enter this new year, we want to look back and celebrate some of the exciting aviation and aerospace industry accomplishments from 2023. The Aerospace Alliance states have drawn some of the world’s most recognizable names in the industry and continue to expand and make innovations in aviation, aerospace and space exploration.
Universities across Alabama focused on research and collaboration efforts for the aerospace and aviation industries, and the innovations launched on campuses hold major real-world promise. Professors and students alike are involved in the efforts, which range from emerging technologies in niche corners of the sector to broad initiatives that would be felt among many major players. Learn more here.
Airbus Americas is increasing its investment in the A220 final assembly line at its Alabama manufacturing facility by an additional $18.8 million. Additionally, Airbus is constructing a second A320 production line at its facility in the Mobile Aeroplex at Brookley complex, a major project that is creating 1,000 jobs and doubling the company’s industrial footprint in Alabama. Learn more here.
The Department of the Air Force announced that is has selected Patrick Space Force Base as the preferred location for the headquarters of the Space Training and Readiness Command and Space Delta 10. Learn more here.
The Boeing Company has provided Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a $5.1 million donation for a research center that will drive safety improvements throughout the industry. The newly named Boeing Center for Aviation and Aerospace Safety at Embry-Riddle, charged with advancing the safety of all who fly, will conduct independent research aimed at mitigating known and emerging operational safety risks. Learn more here.
Following a successful launch of Artemis I in 2022, Michoud Assembly Facility workers have Core Stage II fully assembled and are beginning the process of installing the RS-25 engines. Production also continues on Core Stages III, IV, and V. Orion IV shipped out in February of this year to prepare for a future Artemis mission. Learn more here.
Boeing announced a $1 million grant for STEM NOLA, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing STEM education to under-served communities in New Orleans and nationwide. The group offers various educational opportunities including weekly science tutorials at parks and during and after-school virtual lessons and programming. Learn more here.
Leading 3D-printed rocket company Relativity Space has broken ground on a new vertical test stand at the A-2 complex located at NASA’s Stennis Space Center in Hancock County. In October 2022, Relativity announced a large $267 million expansion at Stennis that will create 630 jobs. Learn more here.
Skydweller Aero Inc. is bringing its flight test and aircraft modification operations to Hancock County. The project represents a corporate investment of $15 million, as well as $40 million in advanced solar powered aircraft inventory. Learn more here.