ARKANSAS AEROPLEX
Original story in the Arkansas Business Land of Steel Growth Report: https://digital.abpg.com/land-of-steel-growth-report_2024/page/14-15
The Arkansas Aeroplex has long been a symbol of Mississippi County’s rich aviation history and its potential for future economic development. Located on the grounds of the former Eaker Air Force Base, the Aeroplex is not just a vestige of the past but has the opportunity to be a dynamic asset, driving future growth in Mississippi County. With its expansive infrastructure and strategic location, it has become a focal point for industrial development and aviation services, serving companies crucial to the region’s economic vitality.
The facility’s 11,600-foot runway is a major draw for businesses, including cargo airlines and military contractors who need space to operate large, heavy aircraft. The Aeroplex’s prime location also plays a critical role in its growth potential. Situated just minutes from the Mississippi River and close to major highways and railways, the facility offers excellent transportation links, connecting businesses to markets across the United States and beyond.
Barrett Harrison, president of the Blytheville-Gosnell Regional Airport Authority, highlights the unique advantages of the Aeroplex.
“We’re strategically positioned to serve as a hub for industries in both aviation and logistics,” said Harrison. “Our goal is to continue to expand these sectors, bringing more high-quality jobs to the region.”
Already established at the Aeroplex is Aviation Repair Technologies (ART), which operates a large maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility. ART’s work is vital in keeping commercial and cargo aircraft in the air, and their presence is a testament to the Aeroplex’s capability to attract significant industry players. Additionally, Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Textron Aviation utilize the base for testing and training, highlighting its strategic importance in what is already one of the state’s top industries.
Congress designated $2 million for the Aeroplex earlier this year for continued site cleanup. Last year, more than $1 million was invested in runway upgrades.
“Aerospace is a huge industry, and we have an ideal place to locate aerospace businesses, either military or munitions or private sector,” said Clif Chitwood, president of the Great River Economic Development Foundation. “We’re preparing certified sites on the air base as well as right on the flight line.”
Aerospace and defense products are the state’s top exports, worth nearly $1.5 billion annually. More than 10,000 Arkansans work in aerospace and defense jobs at approximately 200 companies statewide. The Arkansas Aerospace and Defense Alliance recently hosted a meeting at the Arkansas Aeroplex for the first time after traditionally hosting gatherings in Northwest and Central Arkansas.
“We are laser-focused on growing the aerospace and defense industry in Arkansas and promoting the members we have across the state, including those associated with Mississippi County, Aviation Repair Technologies (ART) and the Arkansas Aeroplex,” Chad Causey, executive director of the Arkansas Aerospace & Defense Alliance, said during that meeting. “We are appreciative of the invitation to come to the Aeroplex and explore the growth potential that exists here for the industry and our state.”
Mississippi County Judge John Alan Nelson emphasized the economic importance of the Aeroplex to the region, especially in light of the county’s broader development goals.
“The Aeroplex is a cornerstone of our economic strategy,” Nelson said. “We’re not just talking about aviation here; this is an industrial park that is attracting a range of businesses from aerospace to manufacturing. It’s providing good-paying jobs, and it’s helping us diversify the local economy.”
The Arkansas Aeroplex provides space and capacity for large, heavy aircraft and is situated minutes from the Mississippi River and major highways and rail lines.
He continued, “the Aeroplex is perfectly positioned to serve as a logistics and transportation hub, which continues to grow in our region. It’s about making sure that we’re taking full advantage of the resources we have and creating new opportunities for business development.”
The region’s commitment to workforce development is one key factor driving this growth. Harrison, Nelson and other local leaders are working closely with local schools and Arkansas Northeastern College to ensure that the local workforce has the skills necessary to meet the needs of Aeroplex employers.
Looking ahead, Harrison and Nelson are optimistic about the future of the Arkansas Aeroplex.
“The growth we’re seeing at the Aeroplex is only the beginning,” said Harrison. “We’re working on plans to attract even more companies, particularly in aviation and logistics. And we’re also focused on improving the facilities, from upgrading the hangars to enhancing our transportation infrastructure. This will make the Aeroplex even more attractive to businesses looking for a reliable and well-equipped location.”
With a continued focus on workforce development, infrastructure improvements and strategic partnerships, the Aeroplex is poised to further its role as a driving force in the county’s economic landscape for decades to come.