Northwest Aerospace News — Issue No. 31 February | March 2023 | Page 70

WHAT ’ S HAPPENING IN YOUR REGION ?

IDAHO : WHERE AEROSPACE TAKES FLIGHT

Idaho ’ s vast airspace and technological capabilities make us uniquely positioned to play a significant role in the research , development , and testing of aviation-related products . Companies like Quest , Empire Airlines , Western Aircraft and Unitech Aerospace Composites have realized that the state ’ s proximity to several large international airports , coupled with our competitive business climate , make Idaho an ideal place to do business .
Currently , northern Idaho is home to more than three dozen aerospace companies , with more landing in the region every year . This diverse array of small and mid-size businesses employs more than 2,500 people who are involved in the production and service of aircraft . Our aerospace businesses span across aircraft operations , maintenance , parts manufacturing and aircraft assembly .
Idaho offers direct access to the I-90 and I-15 corridors , along with 25 direct flights from Boise , allowing easy access for companies like Boeing to work with their 37 Idaho business partners . Idaho ’ s proximity to Boeing production facilities and operations means we ’ re strategically positioned to play an increased role in the company ’ s extensive supply and value chains .
Aerospace in Idaho » 173 Establishments » 2,994 Jobs » $ 68,106 Average Yearly Earnings » 19.2 % 10-Year Projected Growth Rate
Provided by Idaho Commerce
The Idaho Aerospace Alliance ( IDAA ) is a subset of members within the Idaho Manufacturing Alliance dedicated to the aerospace cluster , in both commercial and defense . Utilizing strategic alliances with the education community along with various state agencies , we strive to support and grow the aerospace industry in the state of Idaho and our neighboring regions .
Members manufacture component parts for aircraft engines , control systems , cabin interiors , cargo systems , and just about everything that you can imagine for today ’ s modern passenger , defense and unmanned aircraft . Associate and partner members support aerospace manufacturers in aspects of operating their businesses .
Provided by the Idaho Aerospace Alliance and the Idaho Manufacturing Alliance
Northern Idaho is a part of the I-90 Aerospace Corridor . Located along Interstate 90 between central Washington state across northern Idaho and into central Montana , the I-90 Aerospace Corridor is an integrated network of over 200 companies and organizations actively engaged in the aerospace industry .
The I-90 aerospace supply chain is one of the country ’ s most progressive integrated consortiums of aerospace manufactures with a significant number of capabilities , quality assurances and certifications .
The I-90 Aerospace Corridor includes : » 2 Class 1 Rail Systems » 25 Colleges and Universities » 9,000 Students earning technical certifications to advanced degrees » 250 + trucking companies » 200 + aerospace & MRO companies
Provided by the Coeur d ' Alene Area Economic Development Corporation
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