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 – A groundbreaking ceremony for a new widebody aircraft hangar was held on September 2, marking the start of a significant $27 million investment by International Aerospace Coatings (IAC) at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA). The new facility is planned to cover an expansive 74,920 square feet and will serve as IAC’s second widebody hangar and sixth overall at AMA.
The new hangar is designed to accommodate all types of commercial aircraft, including the Boeing 777-X. In addition to the hangar, there will be a 5,000 square foot storage building developed on-site, enhancing IAC’s operations in the region. The project not only underscores IAC’s longstanding 30-year presence in Amarillo but is also anticipated to create 65 new jobs, expanding the current workforce of 135 employees.
Operational Features and Environmental Considerations
The new facility will bolster IAC’s existing painting operations, featuring specialized rooms for hazardous paint mixing and storage. A wastewater treatment room will also be included to manage environmental handling effectively. Additional infrastructure improvements include a 75-horsepower oil-free air compressor with a 2,000-gallon air receiver tank, along with six strategically placed air drops throughout the facility to enhance operational efficiency.
Ventilation is a priority in the new hangar design, which will provide three-and-a-half air changes per hour, ensuring optimal air quality control during aircraft painting operations. The facility will be outfitted with enhanced electrical service capable of delivering 3,000-AMP, and a durable standing seam metal roof will be part of its construction.
Aerospace Industry Growth and Local Economic Impact
The expansion of IAC at AMA comes in response to increasing demand from major airlines for comprehensive aerospace services. The Amarillo Economic Development Corporation has highlighted that this project accentuates Amarillo’s attractiveness to significant aerospace companies. The construction of the hangar is expected to further solidify Amarillo’s role and position within the aerospace industry.
The new hangar will operate year-round, catering to the diverse needs of various airlines, and is projected to be completed by September 2026. The Amarillo City Council has approved a 50-year lease agreement with the company, along with job creation funding as part of the incentives to facilitate this development.
International Aerospace Coatings operates a total of 19 hangars across 10 locations in the United States and Europe, conducting over 800 paint events annually. The investment in the new hangar is a part of IAC’s commitment to meet the evolving needs of the aerospace industry, providing enhanced capabilities for its clients and contributing positively to the local economy.
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 GEORGETOWN
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