December 17, 2012
First Coast News

A new 150,000-square-foot hangar being built at Cecil Airport is expected to generate 350 to 400 new aviation-related jobs.

Michael Stewart, Director of External Affairs for the Jacksonville Aviation Authority said Monday morning the JAA announced they would build a new hangar to accommodate FlightStar Aircraft Services' expansion.

The $27 million hangar is the largest building project ever undertaken by JAA at Cecil Field, Stewart said.  The project is being financed by the Florida Department of Transportation and JAA.

Stewart said under JAA's agreement with FlightStar, the airport authority will use 11.5 acres of airport property to build the hanger, office facility, adjoining aircraft apron and vehicle parking lot.

Once construction is completed JAA will lease the land and hangar to FlightStar.  Once leased, FlightStar will be responsible for maintenance, repair and overhaul at Cecil Airport.  Stewart said FlightStar currently leases two hangars and one large warehouse/storage building at Cecil Airport from the authority.

JAA Chairman A.L. Kelly said, "FlightStar has been a significant tenant at Cecil Airport, and we are thrilled to see them expand their operations here.  The decision to build Hangar 935 is beneficial for both FlightStar and the Airport, and will add a needed boost to the Jacksonville economy."

For the project, JAA will contribute $13.5 million and the Florida Department of Transportation will match that with $13.5 million from state funds.  Any additional costs incurred by the project will be paid by FlightStar, Stewart said.

Source: http://fcnews.tv/XEdXzz