Gulfstream Aerospace Corp has officially expanded its MRO operations at Appleton International airport in Wisconsin with the opening of a newly built aircraft maintenance facility, operational since 10 August.

The nearly 190,000 sq ft building, northeast of the airport terminal, was constructed with an investment of approximately $40 million. The expansion to the Appleton service centre includes 101,853 sq ft of hangar space which will accommodate 12 Gulfstream G650ER or G650 aircraft. In addition to offices, back shops and general support space, the expansion adds a new sales and design centre and increased customer access to Gulfstream's design portfolio. The project, announced in February 2018, has resulted in nearly 100 new jobs at Gulfstream Appleton, with the potential for more in the next few years.

“This is a very exciting day for Appleton and the entire Fox Valley,” says Gulfstream customer support president Derek Zimmerman. “This beautiful facility represents the most significant expansion we've had in the 20 years we've been here. It is a tremendous asset to our site and the community. It will help us enhance the reliability of our growing fleet, support more customers and elevate their experience, continue to maintain a high level of safety and provide a world-class workplace for our employees.

“We are thankful to General Dynamics, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce Regional Partnership, the Outagamie County Executive, the Outagamie County Board of Supervisors and the town of Greenville Board for their essential support.”

Gulfstream announced the maintenance facility opening before an audience of employees and state and local dignitaries, including Wisconsin governor Tony Evers. The company will open four other expanded or new service centres in 2019 and 2020 at Savannah, Georgia; Van Nuys, California; Palm Beach, Florida; and Farnborough, England.

Gulfstream Appleton is home to a service centre and a large cabin completions facility spread over approximately 500,000 sq ft. It offers customers a broad range of services including major inspections, structural modifications, major avionics installations and safety upgrades. Its MRO operation is certified by the FAA, EASA, CAA of China and seven other civil aviation authorities worldwide. In 2018, Appleton had nearly 500 aircraft visits.

Gulfstream Appleton's new facility has several sustainable features such as sensitive land protection, rainwater management system, enhanced control systems for heating and cooling, optimised energy performance and electric vehicle charging stations. It is expected to receive US Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification.