Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) announced she will join a bipartisan Congressional delegation, led by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kans.), to the Farnborough Air Show in the United Kingdom. Farnborough is the largest biennial trade show in the world, showcasing aerospace manufacturers and suppliers from Alabama and across the globe.

Alabama's aerospace exports surged 23% last year to $2.1 billion, supporting over 45,000 jobs and generating $6 billion annually. “Made in America takes on an even loftier meaning when it’s Made in Alabama, especially when it comes to aerospace, aviation, and defense," said Senator Britt. "I am looking forward to attending the 2024 Farnborough Airshow and helping showcase what makes our great state such a sweet home to do business.”

Joining Britt are Senators John Boozman (R-Ark.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Deb Fischer (R-Nebr.), and John Kennedy (R-La.). A team from the Alabama Department of Commerce, economic development specialists, business leaders from various Alabama communities, as well as representatives from Auburn University and the University of Alabama in Huntsville will also attend.

Every two years, industries gather at Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre for demonstrations of civilian and military aircraft. Alabama has a strong history in U.S. aerospace technology and manufacturing. In 2022, Airbus expanded its Mobile factory with a new assembly line expected to create 1,000 jobs.

Sikorsky's Troy facility delivered its first MH-60T helicopter airframes for the U.S. Coast Guard under a $374 million contract that added around 70 jobs locally. As Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Britt supports funding for this program.

Alabama is home to renowned aerospace companies and educational institutions like Auburn University and Tuskegee University. Recently, Senator Britt secured $6.7 million for Tuskegee University’s new flight school program aimed at addressing an industry shortage with a degree in Aviation Science.