Florida Construction News staff writer
AURA AERO Inc., a French aviation company, has announced plans to build its first U.S. manufacturing and assembly facility in Florida. The announcement came during Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez’s international mission at the Farnborough Air Show.
The new 500,000-sq. ft. plant will be built in the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Research Park in Daytona Beach. The facility is projected to create 1,030 jobs with an average annual salary of $73,695 and represents a capital investment of $172.5 million.
“Today’s announcement highlights our administration’s commitment to bolstering the aerospace and aviation industry in Florida,” Lt. Governor Nuñez said. “We are excited to welcome AURA AERO and appreciate their dedication to bringing high-wage job opportunities to our state.”
Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly praised the state’s investment in infrastructure and workforce development as key to attracting international business. “Governor Ron DeSantis’s leadership has strengthened Florida’s position as a hub for research and manufacturing,” Kelly said. “The collaboration between the Lieutenant Governor and Embry-Riddle was instrumental in securing this deal.”
The SelectFlorida delegation at the Farnborough Air Show, consisting of over 150 attendees including representatives from 19 Florida companies and 12 local economic development partners, played a crucial role in the recruitment effort. The delegation was led by Lt. Governor Nuñez, Secretary Kelly, Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue, and Space Florida President and CEO Rob Long.
“This development will provide valuable real-world experience for our students and contribute to the local economy,” said Embry-Riddle President P. Barry Butler.
The new plant, expected to be operational by 2028, will manufacture and assemble hybrid electric regional aircraft (ERA), with a goal of producing 100 ERAs annually. The decision to locate in Florida followed a competitive selection process, with the state outpacing other contenders including Texas, Alabama, Ohio, and Georgia.
“AURA AERO’s expansion reinforces Florida’s position as a global aerospace hub and supports our goal of connecting top talent with innovative companies,” said Space Florida President Robert Long.