News Summary
International Aerospace Coatings (IAC) has initiated construction on a new aircraft hangar at Amarillo’s Rick Husband International Airport. This $27 million project will span 74,920 square feet, accommodating various commercial aircraft, including the Boeing 777-X. In partnership with ARCO National Construction, this marks IAC’s expansion and will create 65 new jobs in the area. The hangar will feature state-of-the-art facilities focused on environmental care and operational efficiency, reinforcing Amarillo’s reputation as a growing hub for the aerospace industry.
Texas: IAC Breaks Ground on New Aircraft Hangar in Amarillo
Amarillo, Texas is abuzz with excitement as International Aerospace Coatings (IAC) has officially commenced construction on a new state-of-the-art aircraft hangar at the Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA). The project, valued at $27 million, will feature an expansive 74,920 square feet of space specifically designed to accommodate various types of commercial aircraft, including the advanced Boeing 777-X model.
Collaborative Efforts in Aerospace
This significant undertaking is a collaboration between IAC and ARCO National Construction. This partnership reflects the flourishing aerospace sector in Texas and highlights IAC’s long-term commitment to the area, as this will be their second widebody hangar and sixth overall at the Amarillo airport within 30 years of operation.
Features of the New Hangar
The new hangar is designed with features that enhance functionality while considering environmental impacts. It will include specialized hazardous paint mixing and storage rooms, in addition to a wastewater treatment room for effective environmental management. Essential to operations, a 75-horsepower oil-free air compressor will be integrated, alongside a 2,000-gallon air receiver tank to ensure efficient workflow. The facility will have six air drops placed throughout and a ventilation system that facilitates three-and-a-half air changes per hour, promoting excellent working conditions for both aircraft and staff.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The construction of the hangar is poised to significantly impact the local job market, with projections indicating the addition of approximately 65 new jobs to IAC’s current workforce of 135 employees. This development is a favorable outcome for Amarillo, creating new employment opportunities while bolstering the growing aerospace industry in the region.
Amarillo’s Stature in the Aerospace Industry
The necessity for this new hangar underscores the increasing demand from major airlines for enhanced service capabilities. The Amarillo Economic Development Corporation has recognized this development as indicative of the city’s reputation as an appealing destination for prominent aerospace companies. IAC currently manages a total of 19 hangars across 10 locations in the U.S. and Europe, executing over 800 paint events annually, showcasing impressive operational capacity.
Long-Term Investment
From a logistical perspective, the Amarillo City Council has sanctioned a 50-year lease agreement for this project, which comes with incentives aimed at facilitating job creation. This indicates a strong commitment to sustainable growth within the aerospace sector in Amarillo. The construction is slated for completion by September 2026, positioning the new facility to serve airlines year-round efficiently.
Looking Ahead
The development of the new hangar at Amarillo airport not only marks a milestone for IAC but also offers a broader vision for the future of the aerospace industry in the region. The project stands as a testament to local growth, innovation, and ambition, heralding opportunities for community development and advancing aviation prospects in Amarillo.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Amarillo.com: IAC Expands in Amarillo
- NewsChannel 10: IAC Groundbreaking Ceremony
- ABC7 Amarillo: IAC New Facility
- Google Search: International Aerospace Coatings
- My High Plains: IAC Breaks Ground
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aerospace
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, 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 SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
