Otto Aviation will build an advanced manufacturing facility at Cecil Airport in Jacksonville, Florida, to support production of its Phantom 3500 business jet. The company will also move its headquarters to Jacksonville.

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority approved a $34.9 million incentive package for the project. The city will provide up to $20 million in a Revenue Enhancement Value grant, and the State of Florida will contribute over $430 million through tax credits and High Impact Performance Incentive grants.

Governor Ron DeSantis spoke about the move during the Paris Air Show, saying: “I'm pleased to welcome Otto Aviation to Jacksonville. This is a win for Florida and a testament to the kind of innovation we're attracting. Our infrastructure and talent are primed for the next generation of aerospace manufacturing and this project is another indicator that Florida will be home to the future of flight.”

CEO Paul Touw said: “This new facility will become more than a manufacturing site; it's the launchpad for the future of sustainable 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.”

Otto’s Phantom 3500 features a full laminar flow design to reduce drag by 35 per cent. The aircraft offers a 3,500nm range and 51,000-foot cruise altitude.

The Jacksonville site will handle final assembly and begin producing test aircraft in 2026. Otto expects certification and entry into service in 2030. The first operations will take place in Hangar 825 before the company builds a new manufacturing plant.