Ascent Aviation Services, a significant player in independent aircraft aftermarket services globally, has initiated the construction of two new wide-body aircraft hangars at Pinal Airpark in Marana, Arizona. The hangars will serve as a North American conversion site for passenger-to-freighter conversions and heavy maintenance.

The groundbreaking event was attended by Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, Ascent Aviation Services executives, local and state dignitaries, the Arizona Commerce Authority, Marana Mayor Ed Honea, and other community, industry, and education leaders.

The company’s expansion project will increase the Marana operation hangar capacity by 180,000-square-feet, and an additional 60,000 square feet for storage and shop space. Once these hangars are completed, the Marana operation will handle the conversion of two lines of Boeing B777-300ER aircraft for Israel Aerospace Industries. This $55 million capital investment is expected to not only bring over 300 new aviation jobs but also to extend Ascent Aviation Services’ service offerings to the global aviation industry.

Various statements from state and local officials applauded the expansion, emphasizing its role in job creation, economic growth, and the strengthening of Arizona’s position in the aviation industry. Both Governor Katie Hobbs and Ascent Aviation Services CEO David Querio highlighted the company’s long-standing presence and commitment to Arizona.

The new aircraft conversion site is made possible through the cooperation of several project partners, including Governor Hobbs, the Arizona Commerce Authority, Sun Corridor Inc., Pinal County, the Town of Marana, and Pima County.

Ascent Aviation Services has been offering maintenance, component MRO, flight line, storage, and reclamation services to aircraft owners, operators, and lessors for more than forty years. It is recognized as a Class IV FAA 14 CFR Part 145 certified repair station.