Governor Josh Stein and North Carolina Department of Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley recently attended the 55th edition of the Paris Air Show to promote North Carolina’s aerospace industry. Accompanied by the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, they aimed to strengthen ties with international business leaders.
Governor Stein highlighted North Carolina’s role in aerospace innovation, stating, “North Carolina is first in flight, and we are the future of flight.” He emphasized the state’s potential for international collaboration and economic growth. The governor described the trip as a productive effort to showcase why North Carolina is an ideal business location.
Secretary Lilley pointed out that North Carolina’s strong economic infrastructure attracts global businesses. “The Paris Air Show has opened potential avenues for new companies to plant their roots in North Carolina,” he said, noting opportunities for expansion within the state’s aerospace ecosystem.
The Paris Air Show is recognized as the largest aerospace event worldwide, featuring 2,500 exhibitors from 48 countries and attracting 300,000 visitors. In North Carolina, approximately 400 aerospace companies contribute $88 billion annually to the economy. Airbus employs over 500 workers at its Kinston facility.
Recently announced projects include JetZero’s new manufacturing hub at Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTI), expected to bring $4.7 billion and create 14,000 jobs—the largest jobs commitment in state history. Other companies like Boom and HondaJet also have operations at PTI.
Guilford Technical Community College plans a $35 million aviation training facility to support workforce development in response to industry demand.
In recent years, French companies have significantly invested in North Carolina. Over a decade, 113 French firms initiated projects resulting in $439 million investments and creating 1,200 jobs. More than 100 French businesses operate in the state employing around 20,000 residents.
