Aerospace Industry | South Carolina Department of Commerce

South Carolina is home to one of the nation's most dynamic aerospace centers.

With an economic impact of more than $28 billion, the aerospace sector has evolved into a major pillar of the state's economy.

Since 2009, when Boeing selected North Charleston for its final assembly and delivery facility, the state's aerospace industry has soared. The driving force behind the success of this sector is the state's loyal, highly-skilled workforce. From premium automobiles to wide-bodied commercial aircraft, the people of South Carolina have proven that they excel in manufacturing advanced, extremely complex products.

Aerospace Feature Story

Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin opened a new F-16 production line in Greenville, South Carolina. F-16 tooling and equipment previously in Fort Worth, Texas, has since been installed in a newly-refurbished hangar in Greenville, where the company manufactures F-16 Block 70 aircraft.

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Aerospace Industry Facts

400+

firms in the private sector component of the SC aerospace cluster

136,000

South Carolinians employed in the aerospace industry

464

new jobs announced by aerospace firms from 2017–2023

2nd

largest export in the state

$6.6 billion

in export sales of aircraft and parts in 2023

$28.8 billion

economic impact of aerospace in SC

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Aerospace Manufacturer Snapshots

“Boeing has been a part of the South Carolina community for more than a decade, providing meaningful careers for our teammates who continue to innovate the aerospace industry. We are grateful for the strong partnerships across the state that have contributed to the development of an advanced and growing manufacturing community, and we look forward to a long future in South Carolina.”

– Boeing South Carolina Vice President and General Manager Lane Ballard

“The selection of Orangeburg was influenced by the ongoing success in our existing facility. We have been able to hire and train the personnel we need and are confident we will have future success as our facilities grow. GKN is proud to be a part of the South Carolina aerospace community and have continued growing our strong partnership with the State of South Carolina, Orangeburg County Council and the City of Orangeburg.”

– GKN Aerostructures North America Chief Executive Officer Daniele Cagnatel

"This is an exciting time as we celebrate another important milestone for the F-16 ‒ the world's most successful, combat-proven 4th generation fighter. The future is bright, and it begins right here in Greenville, South Carolina ‒ the new home of F-16 production.”

– Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Executive Vice President Michele Evans

“The opportunities to expand our business and create job growth have been many since moving to South Carolina in 2014. It’s an exciting time for RBC Aerostructures. We expect to triple our base business over the next five years and continue to be a contributor to the growth of the South Carolina economy.”

– RBC Aerostructures Director of Operations Stan Griffis