TULSA, Okla. (July 21, 2026) — Park Aerospace Corp. is expanding its U.S. manufacturing footprint with a new $65 million advanced composite materials facility at Tulsa International Airport, reinforcing Oklahoma’s position as one of the nation’s fastest-growing aerospace manufacturing hubs.
The company plans to construct the new facility on 18 acres within the airport’s North Development Area. Construction is expected to begin soon, with operations anticipated to commence in 2028. Once complete, the project is expected to create more than 100 new jobs.
The announcement was made during the Farnborough International Airshow in Hampshire, England, in partnership with the State of Oklahoma.
Park Aerospace has served the aerospace industry for more than five decades, supplying advanced composite materials used in commercial aviation, defense systems, spacecraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, jet engines and other mission-critical aerospace applications.
Strengthening Tulsa’s Aerospace Ecosystem
The investment represents another milestone in Tulsa’s continued emergence as a premier destination for aerospace manufacturing and innovation.
For nearly a century, Tulsa has been recognized as a center for aviation excellence. Today, that legacy continues to expand as aerospace companies are drawn to the region’s strategic location, skilled workforce and collaborative business environment. The city’s aerospace cluster encompasses commercial aviation, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), advanced manufacturing, engineering and emerging space technologies.
Tulsa’s workforce pipeline is supported by nationally recognized aviation and aerospace education programs spanning high schools, career technology centers and higher education institutions, helping ensure a steady supply of skilled talent for the industry’s future.
Company Leadership
Brian Shore, chairman and CEO of Park Aerospace Corp., said the company is excited to begin its next chapter in Oklahoma.
“Thank you, Oklahoma, thank you, Tulsa, and thank you, Tulsa International Airport, for welcoming Park Aerospace to your state, your community and your wonderful airport,” Shore said. “Our new home at Tulsa International Airport represents an exciting new beginning for our company.”
Airport Leaders Welcome Investment
Alexis Higgins, A.A.E., CEO of the Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust, said Park Aerospace’s decision demonstrates the strength of Tulsa’s aerospace ecosystem.
“Companies choose locations where they can find exceptional talent, modern infrastructure and committed partners,” Higgins said. “Tulsa International Airport offers all three, and we look forward to supporting Park Aerospace’s long-term success as it joins one of the nation’s most established aerospace clusters.”
Continued Aerospace Growth
Park Aerospace joins a growing roster of aerospace companies expanding at Tulsa International Airport. Recent announcements include major investments by Agile Space Industries, Quantum Space and continued expansion by Lufthansa Technik Component Services, further accelerating growth across the airport’s aerospace campus.
State and Local Officials Applaud Expansion
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt said the project highlights the state’s growing competitiveness in advanced aerospace manufacturing.
“This investment is another powerful example of Oklahoma’s aerospace industry continuing to grow and compete on a global stage,” Stitt said. “Park Aerospace’s decision to expand in Tulsa reflects the strength of our workforce, our pro-business environment and the momentum we’re building as a destination for advanced aerospace manufacturing.”
Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols said the announcement reinforces the city’s long-standing aviation heritage.
“Tulsa has been an aviation city for generations, and today we’re writing the next chapter of that story,” Nichols said. “Park Aerospace’s investment reflects the confidence global aerospace companies have in our workforce, our business community and our future.”
Room for Future Expansion
With more than 700 acres available for future development, Tulsa International Airport continues to position itself as a leading destination for aerospace companies seeking room to grow. Airport officials say ongoing investments in infrastructure, workforce development and industry partnerships will help strengthen Oklahoma’s aerospace economy for decades to come.
About Park Aerospace
Park Aerospace Corp., headquartered in Newton, Kansas, develops and manufactures advanced composite materials and engineered composite structures for the global aerospace and defense industries. Its portfolio includes specialty adhesives, lightning strike protection materials and composite structures used in commercial and military aircraft, spacecraft, rocket motors, business aviation and unmanned aerial systems.
About Tulsa International Airport
Tulsa International Airport serves more than 3.2 million commercial passengers annually while supporting one of the nation’s largest aviation and aerospace employment centers. The airport is home to a diverse mix of aerospace manufacturers, maintenance providers, suppliers and aviation businesses and continues to expand through strategic industrial development and infrastructure investment.
