Private aviation operator Clay Lacy is expanding its presence at Waterbury-Oxford Airport in Connecticut having broken ground on its $20 million FBO facility.
“We’re breaking ground on what will be one of the finest FBOs and aviation facilities in the country,” said Brian Kirkdoffer, President and CEO of Clay Lacy Aviation. “It will expand and enhance all of the services that we provide. Oxford will be an incredible economic and employment engine, attracting and supporting the finest aircraft and flight operations in the world.”
The first 11-acre phase will feature a passenger terminal, executive offices and a 40,000 sq.ft. hangar. It will also result in 200 new high-paying jobs with an annual payroll in excess of $32 million and 420 indirect jobs during the construction process. The new full-service FBO and maintenance facility is expected to be completed in spring 2024.
Kevin Dillon, Executive Director, Connecticut Airport Authority, said: “Investments like this serve a very significant role in the overall economic development mission of the Connecticut Airport Authority. It elevates the stature and status of the airport and allows us to attract activity all over.”
All the facilities under construction will be built in accordance with Clay Lacy’s Sustainability Strategy and will be certified carbon neutral. The facilities include solar panel provisions, electric vehicle charging, electric aircraft charging, efficient building design and sustainable aviation fuel.
In addition to the construction of its new facility and to foster the next generation of aviation professionals, Clay Lacy Aviation has established an annual scholarship and internship programme with CT Aerotech, which operates a two-year Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology programme in Hartford, Connecticut.
As part of its commitment, Clay Lacy will provide $16,000 in annual scholarships and $10,500 in on-the-job internships.
“We’ve established a great pipeline to support Connecticut and its economy,” said John Ryan, Principal, CT Aerotech of the partnership and internships with Clay Lacy. “This scholarship programme just further strengthens that resolve to put people here in Connecticut to work and get these jobs.”
