SNOHOMISH COUNTY :
AEROSPACE AND MORE
KRISTIN BANFIELD , Paine Field Public Information Officer RICHARD PORTER , Seattle NorthCountry
Welcome to Snohomish County and PNAA ’ s Advance 2024 Annual Conference . Nestled between picturesque landscapes of water and mountains , Snohomish County thrives as a hub for aviation in the heart of a region known for pioneering advanced technologies , sciences , and business ventures . Boasting exceptional community and technical colleges , workforce training programs , and proximity to esteemed universities and research institutions , the county is a fertile ground for intellectual growth .
The past year marked significant growth and innovation in aerospace and aviation within Snohomish County . In early 2023 , the aviation world witnessed the final delivery of the iconic 747 at Boeing ' s Everett Factory , symbolizing the conclusion of the " Queen of the Skies " era . Simultaneously , Boeing announced the establishment of an additional 737 MAX assembly line at the same Everett facility .
Snohomish County , already a global aviation powerhouse , is evolving into a research and development center dedicated to addressing our reliance on carbon-based fuels . Companies like magniX and Eviation focus on electric propulsion , while ZeroAvia concentrates on hydrogen-electric propulsion solutions for regional aircraft . Additionally , Snohomish County is pioneering the establishment of a world-leading Sustainable Aviation Fuels ( SAF ) Research and Development ( R & D ) Center at Paine Field . In collaboration with partners , including Washington State University , the county aims to lead the world in developing new technologies that reduce the global economy ' s dependence on carbon-based fuels .
attractions . The county is famous for being the home of Boeing , a pioneer in aerospace , and has always been a go-to spot for aviation fans . After a hiatus due to COVID-19 , the Boeing Everett Factory Tour is back in action . This tour is a big deal internationally , taking visitors right into the heart of the world ' s largest building ( in terms of volume ) to see how airplanes are put together . Fun fact : the Boeing Factory is so massive that it can create its own weather systems !
Also making a comeback in April is the Flying Heritage Combat Armor Museum ( FHCAM ). This museum showcases vintage aircraft and restored fighting vehicles . It used to be the personal collection of the late tech mogul Paul Allen but is now owned by Steuart Walton , known for his ties to Walmart . The museum is open again , inviting the public to dive into the rich history of warplanes , tanks , motorcycles , and more .
Aviation serves as a convenient gateway to explore Snohomish County ' s natural and cultural wonders . The Seattle Paine Field Passenger Terminal ( PAE ) is the entry point , offering a luxurious European-style experience . Forget about dealing with parking , traffic , or confusing airport layouts – PAE smoothly lands you in the heart of the Pacific Northwest .
While you may come for the airplanes , make sure to stick around for the fantastic hiking , dining , and lodging experiences that make Snohomish County a must-visit destination . Enjoy your stay !
During your visit for the PNAA Advance 2024 annual conference , we invite you to explore Snohomish County ' s sights and attractions , which seamlessly blend the beauty of nature with luxurious experiences . Snohomish County has been buzzing with the return of our major aerospace
122 NORTHWEST AEROSPACE NEWS
PNAA ADVANCE / 2024