Georgia: A Premier Destination for Aerospace and Defense Opportunities

delta plane flying — A Boeing 737 operated by Delta Air Lines, which is headquartered in Atlanta, flies over the city. Image Credit: Delta Air Lines

In the competitive arena of aerospace and defense, Georgia has firmly established itself as a leader in innovation and economic growth. As the fifth-largest aerospace exporter in the U.S., with exports totaling $11.1 billion in 2023, the state is a key player on the global stage. According to PwC, Georgia is also ranked second for Aerospace Manufacturing Readiness, highlighting its exceptional capabilities and infrastructure.

A Hub of Aerospace Excellence

Georgia’s aerospace sector is thriving with a diverse range of companies pushing the boundaries of technology. The state is home to industry giants such as Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation and Lockheed Martin, as well as dynamic startups like Archer Aviation and Hermeus. This vibrant ecosystem supports advancements in aerospace, unmanned aircraft systems, and urban air mobility.

Recent investments by major players, including StandardAero and Pratt & Whitney, underscore Georgia’s strategic importance. These firms, alongside Anduril Industries and Embraer, are drawn to Georgia’s economic benefits, robust infrastructure, and highly skilled workforce.

Talent and Workforce Development

Map of TCSG areas across Georgia — Map of the Technical College System of Georgia’s campuses and the regions each covers. Image Credit: Technical College System of Georgia

The University System of Georgia and the Technical College System of Georgia offer comprehensive programs that address the entire design, manufacturing, and maintenance value chain. In addition, Georgia’s large military presence provides a significant advantage, with four out of five military branches operating in the state.

Robins Air Force Base exemplifies how public and private sectors can work together to build a skilled workforce.
Middle Georgia State University (MGSU)’s FAA-certified aviation programs, strong ties with local aerospace companies, and partnerships with Robins Air Force Base contribute to a labor pool of over 5,000 professionals in Macon-Bibb County.
Robins North Facility – a collaboration between Robins Air Force Base Central Georgia Technical College, and Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority – enhances training and streamlines the transition of students into the aerospace workforce.

aerospace industrial worker in warehouse — C-130 aircraft parts are overhauled at the Robins North Facility and returned to the aircraft to complete the maintenance process. Image Credit: U.S. Air Force photo by Tommie Horton

Innovation and Strategic Partnerships

Georgia’s commitment to innovation is exemplified by research-focused partnerships and cutting-edge facilities. The Georgia Institute of Technology alone is home to:

Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI).
Center for Urban and Regional Air Mobility.
Georgia AI Manufacturing (GA-AIM).
Advanced Manufacturing Pilot Facility (AMPF).

aerospace workers standing in front of an airplane — Archer Aviation has been achieving FAA certifications and product testing milestones while its U.S. scaled facility in Covington is under construction. Image Credit: Archer Aviation

With so much to offer, navigating Georgia’s aerospace ecosystem for the right partnerships often requires a place to start. The Georgia Center of Innovation, part of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, provides industry-specific expertise and fosters collaboration within the aerospace ecosystem, connecting Georgia businesses with these and other resources.

airplane being refueled by a truck — Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced the successful completion of the world’s first trans-Atlantic flight using 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in November 2023, and the opening of LanzaJet’s Freedom Pines facility further highlights Georgia’s role in pioneering sustainable aviation technologies. Image Credit: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. (Left) and LanzaJet (Right)

Strategic Location and Infrastructure

Georgia’s investments in infrastructure, including an expanded $1.5 billion budget for statewide airport improvements, supports continued growth in the aerospace sector.

satellite image of innovation isles aerospace park — Aerial view of the Innovation Isles Aerospace Park. Image Credit: Thomas & Hutton

The development of strategic sites such as the Innovation Isles Aerospace Park and the Eastman Aerospace Park, certified as “Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD)-Select,” provide prime locations for aerospace manufacturing and R&D. The park’s proximity to a regional airport and major transportation hubs enhances its appeal. Archer Aviation chose a similar site in Covington for its new electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) manufacturing facility.

Take the Next Step

For businesses looking to thrive in aerospace and defense, Georgia offers unparalleled opportunities and advantages. With its business-friendly environment, skilled workforce, and commitment to innovation, Georgia is well-positioned to continue shaping the future of aerospace on a global scale.

Explore resources to connect your company into Georgia’s aerospace ecosystem and meet with Georgia Department of Economic Development representatives at events such as Eurosatory, Farnborough International Airshow, Paris Air Show, and the annual SelectUSA Investment Summit.

Georgia: A Premier Destination for Aerospace and Defense Opportunities

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