Ascent Aviation Services broke ground at the end March at Pinal Air Park in Marana Arizona
on two new wide-body aircraft hangars to establish a North American conversion site to carry out
passenger-to-freighter conversions and heavy maintenance. This expansion increases the Marana
operation hangar capacity by 180,000 sq. ft. along with an additional 60,000 sq. ft. of storage and
shop space. Upon completion of this hangar development, the Marana operation will convert two
lines of Boeing B777-300ER aircraft for Israel Aerospace Industries. With an estimated capital
investment of $55 million USD the site will provide more than 300 new aviation jobs, allowing
Ascent Aviation Services to expand its service offerings to the world-wide aviation industry and
bring lasting growth to the local aviation community.
Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs joined executives from Ascent Aviation Services, local, county, and state
dignitaries in attendance in providing remarks focused on the commitment to Southern Arizona
aviation growth and economic development.
“The construction of these two hangars reflects our long-standing commitment to grow our footprint in Southern Arizona and to provide long standing stability to all of our team members,” David Querio, president & CEO of Ascent Aviation Services, stated. “With our long-term partnership with the world’s leader in passenger-to-freighter modifications, Israel Aerospace Industries, Ascent continues to execute on our aggressive and methodical expansion of capabilities for our global network of customers.”
“For more than forty years, Ascent has maintained a strong and continuous presence in our state –
bolstering our robust aviation industry and bringing hundreds of jobs to the region,” said Governor
Katie Hobbs. “Today’s announcement is the beginning of what is sure to be another forty years of
partnership, collaboration, and innovation that will move our state and country forward. Not only will
this expansion grow Ascent’s existing Arizona footprint, it represents a fifty-five million dollar capital
investment into this community and will create more than three hundred new, good-paying jobs.”
Project partners include Gov. Hobbs, Pinal County, Town of Marana, Sun Corridor Inc., Arizona
Commerce Authority, and Pima County. Statements of support from partners are featured below.
“As the Pinal County Supervisor for this area, I am honored Ascent has chosen this location to
expand its footprint. Their investment in our communities will benefit many through jobs and
economic growth for generations to come. Pinal County looks forward to continuing our work with
Ascent in meeting their needs and schedules through this significant project.” ~ Vice Chairman
McClure.
“As Mayor of Marana, I am proud to stand with our community in celebrating the groundbreaking of
Ascent Aviation Services’ two new hangars,” said Ed Honea, mayor, Town of Marana. “This
expansion not only signifies growth in our aviation industry but also underscores our commitment
to supporting primary employers who bring good jobs to Marana, fostering further economic
development. Together, we soar to new heights, united in building a stronger, more prosperous
future for all residents of Marana.”
“I’m thrilled to witness the groundbreaking of Ascent Aviation Services’ two new hangars in our
region,” said Joe Snell, president and CEO, Sun Corridor Inc. “This investment not only enhances
our aerospace capabilities but also underscores the collaborative and regional spirit of our
community. Together, we continue to position Southern Arizona as a leader in aviation innovation,
driving economic growth and prosperity for generations to come.”
“We are excited to celebrate Ascent Aviation Services’ expansion in Marana,” said Sandra Watson,
president and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “Ascent’s new aircraft conversion site will
create hundreds of jobs and highlights Arizona’s premier attractiveness for advanced aviation
operations. We are grateful to Ascent for its investment in Arizona and we look forward to
supporting the company’s continued success.”
“I’m excited to celebrate our neighbor Pinal County and Ascent Aviation Services on their
groundbreaking of two new hangars in Marana. This significant expansion not only highlights our
region’s attractiveness for aviation investment but also underscores our commitment to fostering a
thriving aerospace sector,” said Rex Scott, District 1 and vice chair of the Pima County Board of
Supervisors. “Together, we celebrate this milestone, knowing it will bring jobs, opportunities, and
economic vitality to all of Southern Arizona and beyond.”
unity.