JSfirm Member Press: Sikorsky Aerospace Services Expands its Footprint in Texas with State-of-the-Art Blade Repair & Overhaul Center

DFW Airport, Texas - Sikorsky Aerospace Services, the aftermarket business of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., today formally dedicated its Composite Technology Inc. (CTI) unit’s new world-class, "purpose built" helicopter blade repair and overhaul center at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport in Texas. Sikorsky Aircraft is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX). The new, state-of-the-art 152,000-square-foot building was designed using Lean manufacturing concepts, and is nearly three times the size of CTI’s former facility. Expanded capabilities will include a 6,000-shaft horsepower dynamic test stand capable of supporting a wide range of helicopter models and two downdraft paint booths. The company’s employment has more than doubled in the past year to 135 technicians and support staff. "Sikorsky Aircraft is proud to be a part of the rich and preeminent aerospace tradition here in Texas and the new CTI facility is an important component in the broad range of aftermarket services for our customers," said Sikorsky President Jeffrey P. Pino. David Adler, President of Sikorsky Aerospace Services, added: "This is a world-class blade repair facility that offers us greater efficiencies, which translates to faster repairs and lower costs for our customers. With operating costs playing such a critical role in our industry, we are focused on helping operators achieve their objectives through CTI’s technical expertise and multi-OEM capability." Texas Gov. Rick Perry commended Sikorsky for its ongoing contribution to the state’s thriving aerospace industry. "Sikorsky Aerospace’s expansion is welcome news for Texas and just one example of how the Texas economy remains comparatively strong in the midst of a sluggish national economy," said Gov. Perry. "Our state’s commitment to low taxes and predictable regulations has fostered an economic climate where businesses can prosper, enabling them to develop the technology that will advance our global competitiveness and create needed jobs for hard-working Texans." Sikorsky Aerospace Services provides comprehensive support to rotary and fixed wing aircraft around the world. It offers its military and commercial customers a full portfolio of support services through its aftermarket companies, Derco Aerospace, Inc., Helicopter Support, Inc., Sikorsky Aerospace Maintenance, Composite Technology, Inc., and Sikorsky Helitech. Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.