Senate Leaders Celebrate Record-Setting Economic Benefits of Oklahoma’s Aerospace Industry

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, and other Senate leaders issued the following statements today after a new report from the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics showed the state’s aerospace and defense industry has increased significantly since the 2017 Oklahoma Aerospace and Defense Industry Economic Impact Study.

According to the study, every major segment of the industry has grown, pushing its overall economic impact to a historic $52.5 billion.

Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle:

“Oklahoma’s aerospace and defense industry is a tremendous economic engine for our state, and these numbers show just how significant its impact has become. More than $52.5 billion in annual economic activity and more than 250,000 jobs supported statewide is a powerful testament to the strength of this industry and the hardworking Oklahomans who make it possible. Oklahoma has built a reputation as a place where businesses can grow, workers can build careers and employers can find the talent they need. Having one of the lowest corporate tax burdens in the nation, combined with our skilled workforce, world-class aviation infrastructure and strong military presence, it gives us a tremendous competitive advantage.”

Sen. Paul Rosino, R-Oklahoma City, Retired U.S. Navy Master Chief Petty Officer and Leading Aerospace Advocate:

“Oklahoma’s aerospace and defense industry continues to shatter records for its statewide economic impact. Today’s announcement is huge news for our state as a whole and for the more than 250,000 local jobs supported by our fastest-growing field. Aerospace, aviation and our military bases have long been part of Oklahoma’s identity. But this new report shows the industry is hitting its stride as Oklahoma has carved out its place as a national powerhouse for manufacturers, MROs, defense contractors, logistics firms and innovative companies shaping the future of aviation technology. Most importantly, Oklahoma is committed to building on this success through workforce development initiatives that ensure we continue to train the best pilots, engineers, mechanics and military personnel in the country. More than $52.5 billion contributed to our economy is an impressive new baseline for an industry that has limitless momentum to keep soaring to new heights.”

Sen. Kelly Hines, R-Oklahoma City, Retired U.S. Army Colonel and Chairman of the Oklahoma Legislature’s Aerospace Caucus:

“Oklahoma’s aviation and defense sector is the state’s second‑largest industry, expanding in scale and capability with every new business and local investment. Strengthening the workforce pipeline, supporting the infrastructure that keeps aviation and aerospace operations running and sustaining the systems that fuel innovation is essential to ensuring Oklahoma remains a national leader in this critical field. In all my years as an Army aviator and aviation commander, I never imagined seeing this level of unprecedented growth in the aerospace industry here at home. As chairman of the legislative Aerospace Caucus, I know how vital this industry is to every aspect of Oklahoma’s economy. I look forward to working with my legislative colleagues to support continued progress and growth that is key to diversifying our economy.”

Sen. Chuck Hall, R-Perry, Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee:

“Oklahoma’s aerospace industry is a force to be reckoned with. Aviation and defense companies are driving record growth in communities of every size, from our smallest rural towns to our major metropolitan areas. This growth wouldn’t be possible without the regional and municipal airports that connect rural communities to the rest of the world. These airports fuel economic development, support thousands of local jobs and bring new visitors and investment into our state. The Oklahoma Senate is committed to doing everything it can to support this growing industry and sustain this strong trajectory.”

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