Aerospace - Banner Image

SOUTH MIAMI-DADE TAKES AEROSPACE TO NEW HEIGHTS

GATEWAY TO SPACE INNOVATION

Aerospace - Banner Image

SOUTH MIAMI-DADE
TAKES AEROSPACE TO NEW HEIGHTS

GATEWAY TO
SPACE INNOVATION

NAVIGATE SOUTH MIAMI-DADE
TAKES AEROSPACE TO NEW HEIGHTS

GATEWAY TO
SPACE INNOVATION

In South Florida,
the aerospace industry knows no bounds

Florida’s aerospace and aviation industry offers top-notch connectivity and a robust supply chain, serving as the global gateway to space and providing numerous aerospace business opportunities. Home to Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida has become an internationally renowned leader in space exploration.

Less widely known, our state ranks second in the nation for aerospace products and parts manufacturing, as well as space and defense systems manufacturing. This is due, in part, to Florida’s more than 400 aerospace establishments. Moreover, with 130 public-use airports and 20 commercial airports, Florida serves as a hub for flight training, maintenance, and aircraft manufacturing.

We also have the perfect economic climate for industry growth. Florida’s cost-competitive environment, favorable tax structure, lack of personal income tax, and exceptional quality of life make it easy for startups and established businesses to thrive.

Talent Shoots for the Stars in Florida

As our state is home to renowned aerospace giants and emerging startups, we have unparalleled access to highly skilled, experienced talent. Over 126,000 Floridians work in Florida’s Aviation and Aerospace industries, including rocket scientists, machinists, pilots, engineers, and other highly skilled workers. Additionally, Florida has over 67,000 active duty personnel, 32,000+ civilian personnel, and over 10,000 annual military separatees (Source: Lightcast data, 2020-2021).

The future is equally bright, with Florida’s universities among the nation’s top producers of STEM graduates, including many specializing in aerospace and aviation.

Opportunities Take Flight in South Miami-Dade

South Miami-Dade is a dynamic epicenter for aerospace and aviation excellence, offering various companies from aircraft manufacturing to maintenance and repair. Countless global leaders, including Pratt & Whitney, Collins Aerospace, and SpaceX, have chosen South Florida as their operational base, drawn by our rich talent pool and collaborative ecosystem.

Recent advancements in space technology and innovative financing options have fueled investor interest, making South Miami-Dade a premier destination for space startups. In our region, companies seeking expansion in aerospace business are bound to find abundant resources and partnership opportunities.

With an exceptional talent pool, world-class training programs, and cutting-edge facilities, South Miami-Dade provides the perfect launchpad for established and emerging startup companies looking to bring their aviation or aerospace business to new heights. In South Florida, the sky isn‘t the limit—it’s just the beginning.

FLORIDA AEROSPACE & AVIATION INDUSTRY HIGHLIGHTS

  • #1 for Aviation & Aerospace

    Establishments in Nation1

  • #2 for Parts ManufacturingManu-facturing

    or Aerospace, Space & Defense Systems2

  • #1 in MRO

    Also, #3 in Aircraft Manufacturing Establishments3

  • #3 in Defense Systems

    Manufacturing Establishments4

  • $9.5 Billion

    in Aviation & Defense Industry Exports in 20225 Largest Veteran Population in the U.S. with Over 1.4 million Veterans1

  • STEM Grads

    Florida Universities Among Top Producers of STEM Graduates, Especially for Aerospace & Aviation5

I can truly say that South Miami-Dade stands out as an incredible opportunity for our industry. With its strategic location and supportive business climate and abundance of talent, South Miami-Dade has everything an aerospace company needs to thrive.

Constituent, EDC of South Miami-Dade

Major Employers & Assets
Aerospace, Defense, & Aviation

Homestead Air Reserve Base (HARB)

The Homestead ARB is a crucial center for aerospace and defense operations, strategically located at the southernmost tip of the continental United States. Home to the 482nd Fighter Wing (FW), it supports vital contingency and training operations for the U.S. Southern Command and various tenant units. Hosting key entities such as Headquarters Special Operations Command South, the U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Team, and units of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, HARB plays a pivotal role in our national security. Additionally, it operates the busiest North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) alert site in the continental U.S., ensuring swift response capabilities. Committed to providing efficient defense services, Homestead ARB's strategic positioning in the Caribbean Basin enables versatile capabilities, prioritizing readiness to safeguard our nation's security and interests.

Address: 29050 Coral Sea Blvd, Homestead, FL 33039

VISIT WEBSITE

Special Operations Command South (SOCSOUTH)

Special Operations Command South (SOCSOUTH) is critical in advancing the USSOUTHCOM Strategy of Cooperative Regional Peacetime Engagement. It employs Special Operations Forces (SOF) capabilities to shape the security landscape and respond swiftly to threats to U.S. interests. Managing over 200 SOF deployments each year and conducting approximately 42 missions across 16 countries simultaneously, SOCSOUTH ensures agile and effective responses to emerging challenges.

Address: 29401 SW 125th Ave. Bldg 600. Homestead, FL 33033

VISIT WEBSITE

Guard Engineering Unit (in support of U.S. Coast Guard District 7)

The U.S. Coast Guard Engineering Unit, operating in support of U.S. Coast Guard District 7, is strategically situated on approximately 100 acres adjacent to Zoo Miami. This unit plays a pivotal role in managing the communications facility for USCG District 7 while also offering essential administrative support to personnel in housing, transportation, and various other support services.

Address: 15608 S.W. 117th Avenue Miami, FL 33177

VISIT WEBSITE

Luis Martinez Army Reserve Unit

The Luis Martinez Army Reserve Unit, situated on 10 acres of federal property adjacent to Zoo Miami, is a vital training facility. Housing 12 units of the U.S. Army Reserve, it offers essential training to reservists assigned to medical companies, transportation detachments, engineering companies, and civil affairs battalions—contributing significantly to their preparedness and effectiveness.

Address: 13601 SW 176th St, Miami, FL 33177

VISIT WEBSITE

Miami Executive Airport (TMB)

Miami Executive Airport (TMB) stands out as one of Florida's busiest general aviation airports, catering to a diverse range of activities, including corporate aviation, recreational flying, flight training, and government operations. Strategically located just 15 minutes from the business hubs of South Miami-Dade County, it serves as a vital reliever to Miami International Airport. Moreover, its convenient access to the Florida Turnpike, Ocean Reef, the Florida Keys, and the vibrant amenities of Miami and Miami Beach make it a key transportation hub for leisure and business travelers. Equipped with modern, efficient, and professionally staffed fixed-base operation (FBO) facilities, Miami Executive Airport caters to the expanding corporate and business interests of South Florida, bolstering economic development and connectivity in the region.

Address: 12800 SW 145th Ave, Miami, FL 33186

VISIT WEBSITE

Aerojet Rocketdyne / Aerojet Everglades Rocket Factory

Aerojet Rocketdyne is a prominent aerospace and defense technology company headquartered in Homestead, Florida. Specializing in propulsion systems and aerospace engineering, Aerojet Rocketdyne is vital in advancing space exploration and enhancing national defense capabilities. With a focus on innovation and excellence, Aerojet Rocketdyne's contributions extend globally, impacting various aspects of aerospace technology and industry standards.

Address: SW 192nd Ave, Homestead, FL 33034

VISIT WEBSITE

Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin is a renowned aerospace, defense, and technology solutions company with operations in Homestead, South Miami-Dade. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Lockheed Martin leads the way in pioneering advancements in aeronautics and national security systems. From developing cutting-edge technologies to addressing complex challenges, Lockheed Martin's presence in South Miami-Dade reflects the region’s dedication to shaping the future of aerospace and defense industries.

Address: 8669 NW 36th St. Miami, FL 33166

VISIT WEBSITE

Miami Homestead General Aviation Airport

Miami Homestead General Aviation Airport (X51) is a strategic hub for South Florida's economic development, offering convenient access just three miles from Homestead with no landing fees. Its proximity to Everglades and Biscayne National Parks makes it an ideal gateway for ecotourism. At the same time, its location near the Homestead/Miami Speedway and business areas of South Dade facilitates corporate travel. Additionally, it provides essential links to the Florida Keys, catering to leisure and sport fishing industries. With self-service fuel options and versatile facilities accommodating various aviation activities, including business flights, skydiving, and gliding, the airport plays a vital role in fostering economic growth and tourism in the region.

Address: 28700 SW 217th Ave, Homestead, FL 33030

VISIT WEBSITE

The Eig-Watson School of Aviation

The Eig-Watson School of Aviation, located at Miami-Dade College's Homestead Campus, is a cornerstone of aviation education in the region. Offering associate degrees and certificate programs in Aviation Administration, Air Cargo Management, Transportation and Logistics, and Global Logistics, the school provides comprehensive training in diverse disciplines essential to the aviation industry. Through strategic partnerships with local flight schools like Wayman Aviation and Pan Am International Flight Academy, students benefit from hands-on experience and industry connections. Operating under FAA regulations with Part 141 certification and approval, the school ensures adherence to rigorous standards, preparing students for successful careers in aviation and contributing to the economic development of the region.

Address: 14715 SW 128th St, Miami, FL 33186

VISIT WEBSITE

Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman has a significant presence in South Miami-Dade, particularly at the Homestead Air Reserve Base. They are involved in various aerospace and defense projects, including aircraft maintenance and upgrades.

Address: 29050 Coral Sea Blvd, Homestead, FL 33039

VISIT WEBSITE

Dean International Flight School

Dean International Flight School: Dean International Flight School is one of the largest flight training schools in the area, offering various pilot training programs and aircraft rental services.

Address: 14150 SW 129th St, Miami, FL 33186

VISIT WEBSITE

B/E Aerospace / Collins Aerospace

B/E Aerospace, acquired by Collins Aerospace, operates manufacturing facilities in South Florida. They specialize in the design and manufacturing of aircraft interior products, including seating, galleys, lavatories, and lighting systems.

Address: 14150 SW 129th St, Miami, FL 33186

VISIT WEBSITE

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EXPLORE OUR ECONOMIC FRONTIER!

Interested in data about the region’s economics, workforce, taxes,
business incentives, and more? Or want to do a property search?

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