Aerospace in the Golden Triangle
Where Innovation and Industry Take Flight
The Golden Triangle Region of Mississippi is a powerhouse of aerospace innovation and advanced manufacturing.
With one of the nation’s top research universities, state-of-the-art industrial sites, and a highly skilled workforce, this region provides everything aerospace companies need to design, build, and grow.
Located in the heart of the Southeast’s aerospace corridor, the Golden Triangle offers unmatched access to major transportation networks, workforce training, and a collaborative business climate that accelerates growth.
A Proven Aerospace Cluster
The Golden Triangle is home to global aerospace leaders who have found success here. These employers represent a thriving ecosystem of precision manufacturing, composites, defense technology, and flight systems.
Aurora Flight Sciences has a research and production facility for advanced unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
LOWNDES
COUNTY
Stark Aerospace designs and manufactures defense systems, composites, and advanced avionics.
LOWNDES
COUNTY
6+
Major Aerospace Firms
90K+
Regional Workforce
1,500+
Engineering Graduates per Year (MSU)
8,000 ft
Runway Length
1
Shovel-ready Megasite
$260M+
Yearly R&D Investment
2
Custom Training Centers
SKILLED
WORKFORCE
The Golden Triangle offers direct access to Mississippi State University, one of the nation’s leading research and land-grant universities with:
- Top-ranked engineering and aerospace programs
- Research centers focused on unmanned systems, advanced materials, and autonomous flight
- Collaborative projects with NASA, the U.S. Air Force, and major defense contractors
Local workforce development is supported by:
- East Mississippi Community College’s Workforce and Community Services Division is nationally recognized for its customized training programs tailored to employer needs
- Specialized certifications in composites, robotics, precision machining, and aviation maintenance
- State workforce programs providing no-cost customized training for new and expanding industries
SPECIALIZED
TRAINING
Sites, Infrastructure, & Logistics
The Golden Triangle delivers shovel-ready industrial sites and unmatched logistics advantages, including:
- Golden Triangle Regional Airport (GTR) has an 8,000-ft runway, an on-site industrial park, and air cargo access
- Certified industrial megasites with rail, utilities, and interstate connectivity
- U.S. Highways 45 and 82 provide direct access to I-20/59, I-55, and I-22
- Class-I rail service via Kansas City Southern
- Port access to the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway for global shipping
Each site features redundant power, robust broadband, and expandable utilities, which are ideal for large-scale aerospace assembly plants or component manufacturing.
INNOVATION & RESEARCH POWER
At the center of the region’s innovation ecosystem is Mississippi State University, designated by the FAA as a Center of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (ASSURE). These facilities at MSU enable collaboration between academia, government, and the private sector.
INCENTIVES & BUSINES CLIMATE
Mississippi and the Golden Triangle offer a streamlined, pro-business environment designed for speed and cost savings:
- Aerospace and advanced manufacturing incentives (tax credits, property tax exemptions, and workforce training support)
- Fast-track permitting and site-ready certifications
- Local incentives through GTR LINK and community partners for strategic projects
Aerospace professionals and their families find the Golden Triangle to be a welcoming, affordable, and vibrant community.
- Excellent public and private schools
- Outdoor recreation on the Tombigbee River, local refuges, and area lakes
- Rich cultural life anchored by Mississippi State University and MUW sports, arts, and events
- Cost of living is 15–20% below the national average
From charming small towns to collegiate energy, the region blends innovation with Southern hospitality.
QUALITY OF LIFE
CONNECT WITH US
Ready to explore aerospace opportunities in the Golden Triangle Region?
GTR LINK partners with aerospace companies to simplify site selection, training, and expansion.