Aerospace businesses in Midland are seeing significant growth with the expansion of Starfighters Space Inc. to the Midland International Air & Space Port, announced in September 2024. The company operates a unique commercial fleet capable of flying at speeds over Mach 2. This move is expected to bring new opportunities through an economic development agreement. Midland Development Corporation (MDC) and Starfighters are collaborating to obtain FAA approval for a high-speed airspace corridor between Midland and Spaceport America in New Mexico, reinforcing Midland's position in the aerospace industry.
Starfighters Space brings its expertise in private and defense aerospace research, as well as high-speed flight, making it a valuable partner for Midland. The Midland Spaceport Business Park is already home to several aerospace companies such as Firehawk Aerospace, Castelion, the MITRE Corporation, and LeoLabs.
With increased Department of Defense spending on hypersonic research, there is potential for further business growth at the 377-acre park. Establishing an FAA-approved high-speed airspace corridor could enhance opportunities for both Midland and Starfighters Space. A study conducted in 2022 confirmed the feasibility of this corridor, which would allow Starfighters to conduct supersonic research missions over approximately 290 miles between Midland and Spaceport America.
Rick Svetkoff, CEO of Starfighters Space, emphasized that "as a strategic southwestern hub," Midland will enable faster and more cost-effective access to military operating areas. He also noted its potential as a "hypersonic test corridor."
Achieving FAA certification could attract more aerospace and defense businesses seeking geographic diversification to Midland. This would create high-paying jobs, diversify the local economy, and expand the tax base.
The economic development agreement approved by MDC and the Midland City Council ensures that at least $78 million in capital assets will be hosted at Starfighters' location by December 2033. Twenty-three full-time jobs will be created as part of their commitment to hiring locally.
Relocation efforts include moving F-104 Starfighters aircrafts and other equipment by early next year. Additionally, five jets and a DC-9 Zero G Test Bed are expected on-site by Q1's end.
Midland serves as an alternative facility for StarLaunch—a supersonic space delivery platform developed with GE Aeronautics—using F-104 fighter jets to deliver satellites into low earth orbit.
For more information about available sites at the Spaceport Business Park in Midland or terms related thereto contact MDC today.