ICYMI: On First Day of Trade Mission, Governor Ron DeSantis Opens the Florida Pavilion at the 55th International Paris Air Show

It was also announced that Otto Aviation will be moving its headquarters to Jacksonville and constructing a major manufacturing facility

PARIS, France— Today, on the first day of Florida’s international trade and business development mission to France, Governor Ron DeSantis officially opened the Florida Pavilion at the 55th International Paris Air Show and joined Otto Aviation to announce the relocation of the company’s global headquarters and the construction of a new manufacturing facility at Cecil Airport in Jacksonville, Florida.

 “We are proud to be at the forefront of aerospace innovation,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Florida’s presence at the Paris Air Show is a testament to our state’s international partnerships and position as a top destination for cutting-edge aerospace companies, high-wage jobs, and technical industry.”

 As part of its relocation, Otto Aviation will invest more than $430 million in capital improvements, developing an 850,000 square-foot manufacturing and production facility. The project will create more than 389 high-skilled and high-wage jobs—making it one of the most significant advanced manufacturing developments in Northeast Florida in recent years.

 “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,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “By fostering a competitive, business-first climate, Florida has created an ecosystem where innovators, entrepreneurs, and investors have the confidence to grow, innovate, and make long-term commitments in Florida. We’re proud to support Florida’s small and emerging aviation and aerospace companies as they showcase the strength and ferocity of Florida’s economy at the 55th International Paris Air Show.”

 "This new facility will become more than a manufacturing site — it’s the launchpad for the future of sustainable aviation," said Paul Touw, CEO of Otto Aviation. "Jacksonville stood out as a city that shares our long-term vision: pushing boundaries in aerospace innovation while creating high-quality jobs and meaningful impact. We’re excited to become a part of this dynamic community."

The new facility at Cecil Airport will support the production of Otto Aviation’s revolutionary aircraft and expand the company’s ability to deliver advanced solutions to both commercial and defense markets. This investment demonstrates the state’s strategic commitment to growing future-focused industries and accelerating job creation.

“Thanks to Governor DeSantis’ pro-business policies, Florida is becoming even more attractive to large and small businesses who are expanding operations and creating jobs that will drive the future success of our state,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Transportation infrastructure is the key to Florida’s growing economy and prioritizing partnerships will ensure a strong and robust industry that best serves Floridians.”

 “Forging this deal at the Paris Air Show is a clear signal to aerospace companies that Florida is committed to the future of flight,” said Secretary of State Cord Byrd.  “I congratulate state and local leadership teams, and Otto Aviation for ushering in a new era of flight and economic opportunities for northeast Florida.” 

 “Otto Aviation’s selection of Cecil is a testament to the strength of Florida’s statewide aerospace ecosystem and the investments we have made to attract innovation to our state. We look forward to working together to ensure Florida remains the global center for aerospace commerce,” said Rob Long, president and CEO, Space Florida.

Florida now boasts a $1.7 trillion economy—representing nearly 55% growth during Governor DeSantis’ administration. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked Florida as the #1 economy in the nation for the second consecutive year, as well as #1 in economic growth, #1 in higher education for the ninth year in a row, and #2 in education overall.

As a global leader in aerospace and aviation, Florida ranks #2 in aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) establishments and #3 in aircraft manufacturing establishments nationwide. The state is home to more than 700 aerospace companies and 2,000 aviation-related businesses driving continued growth and innovation.

Florida’s strategic infrastructure supports this economic strength, with three spaceports, 16 deepwater seaports, 21 commercial airports, 130 public-use airports, and more than 20 major military installations, including three combatant commands.

Read more about today's announcement here.