Otto Aviation to Establish $430 Million Facility in Jacksonville

News Summary

Otto Aviation announces plans to build a major manufacturing facility at Jacksonville’s Cecil Airport with an investment of at least $430 million. The facility will be developed in two phases, relocating the company’s headquarters from Texas. Aiming to combat rising carbon emissions from private jets, the Phantom 3500 will be produced at this site, which is designed for improved fuel efficiency. The project is expected to create around 1,200 jobs and is supported by a $34.9 million incentive from the Jacksonville Aviation Authority.

Jacksonville, Florida – Aviation company Otto Aviation is set to create a major manufacturing facility at Jacksonville’s Cecil Airport, with an investment of at least $430 million. This facility will be developed in two phases, marking a significant step as the company relocates its headquarters from Texas to Jacksonville.

The first phase of the project involves moving into an existing hangar previously used by Boeing Co. Subsequently, the second phase will include the construction of a new plant on approximately 80 to 100 acres of available land at Cecil Airport. Otto Aviation has undertaken this initiative to address rising carbon emissions linked to private jets, which have dramatically increased over the past five years.

Otto Aviation’s flagship aircraft, the Phantom 3500, is a twin-engine, “super-midsized” jet designed for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The Phantom 3500 can operate smoothly in turbulent conditions, fly faster than standard commercial planes, and consume roughly half the fuel. Utilizing advanced laminar flow technology, the jet burns up to 60% less fuel and generates 92% less carbon emissions when compared to rival private jets. Additionally, the Phantom 3500 flies at a cruising altitude of 51,000 feet and employs cockpit technology that optimizes performance.

The interior of the Phantom 3500 features a spacious cabin measuring 6’5″ in height and 800 cubic feet in width, which is twice the size of other comparable aircraft cabins. Instead of traditional windows, this innovative aircraft uses a panoramic visual system dubbed “Super Natural Vision.” The company plans to initiate research and development activities in Hangar 825 at Cecil Airport, with test flights scheduled for early 2027 and aims for FAA certification and market entry by 2030.

Anticipating a boost to the local economy, Otto Aviation projects to create approximately 1,200 jobs at the new facility, with an average annual salary of $90,000, excluding benefits. In support of this venture, the Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) has approved a $34.9 million incentive package, which is anticipated to play a crucial role in the project’s progression. This package includes $22.5 million allocated for taxiway improvements and lease payment abatements totaling more than $12 million.

In addition, the JAA and city officials are evaluating further financial incentives for Otto Aviation, including a Recapture Enhanced Value grant worth up to $20 million. The Jacksonville City Council is expected to vote on additional incentives in June.

Otto Aviation was selected from a list of over 50 airports nationwide for this substantial project, highlighting Jacksonville’s attractiveness for aerospace operations. The company’s founder, William “Bill” Otto, aims to alleviate the costs associated with private air travel while simultaneously minimizing its environmental impact. The board of Otto Aviation includes prominent figures such as former Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg and former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, adding to the company’s credibility and expertise in the aviation sector.

The Phantom 3500 is based on technology from Otto’s earlier aircraft, the Celera 500L, and the company plans to encourage suppliers to establish their operations in Jacksonville alongside its manufacturing facility. The overall goal is to create substantial economic development, particularly in the aerospace industry, contributing positively to the local community and workforce.

With this project, Otto Aviation is set to play a significant role in addressing the environmental challenges posed by private jets while enhancing the economic landscape of Jacksonville through job creation and technological advancements in aviation. The comprehensive investment of $430 million not only signifies the company’s commitment to sustainable aviation but also positions Jacksonville as a potential hub for aerospace innovation.

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Additional Resources

• Jax Daily Record: Otto Aviation and Project Bluebird
• Wikipedia: Jacksonville
• News 4 Jax: Inside the Unique Aircraft
• Google Search: Otto Aviation
• Jacksonville.com: Otto Aviation’s Role
• Google Scholar: Private Jet Technology
• Jax Daily Record: Economic Impact of Otto Aviation
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Aviation
• News 4 Jax: $400 Million Investment
• Google News: Jacksonville Aviation