FloridaCommerce and SelectFlorida have highlighted notable achievements during the first day of Governor Ron DeSantis’ trade mission to France. The Governor inaugurated the Florida Pavilion at the 55th International Paris Air Show, featuring 15 small and emerging aviation and aerospace companies from Florida. A key announcement was made regarding Otto Aviation’s decision to move its manufacturing operations and corporate headquarters to Cecil Airport in Jacksonville, Florida.
J. Alex Kelly, Florida Secretary of Commerce, commented on this development: “Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida’s leaned into industries like aerospace, aviation, military and defense—industries that are so deeply part of the Florida fabric—Otto Aviation’s decision to manufacture in Florida is a perfect fit for our state.” He emphasized that the state’s business climate supports innovation and long-term commitments.
Otto Aviation aims to transform private and regional aviation with innovative aircraft designs. The relocation project, previously known as “Project Bluebird,” has been a collaborative effort involving local and state officials. After the 2024 Farnborough Air Show, Otto Aviation selected Cecil Airport for assembling its Phantom 3500 jet. This move is expected to create 389 high-wage jobs with an average salary of $90,388 and generate over $430 million in capital investment.
Governor DeSantis also engaged with executives from major French aviation companies such as Air France and Embraer to reinforce partnerships and explore further business opportunities between regions.
The international trade mission runs from June 16 to June 18, focusing on the Paris Air Show. It includes delegates such as J. Alex Kelly, Jared Perdue (Secretary of Transportation), Cord Byrd (Secretary of State), Rob Long (Space Florida President & CEO), Alexander Cartwright (University of Central Florida President), Barry Butler (Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University President), along with representatives from various educational institutions and economic organizations across multiple sectors.
