Kinston Regional Jetport's impact soars in State Aviation Report
The 2025 State of Aviation Report highlights the significant economic and community contributions of the Kinston Regional Jetport at the North Carolina Global TransPark (GTP). The report underscores the jetport's vital role in Eastern North Carolina’s economic growth, with an impressive $781 million in economic output, 2,995 jobs supported, $235 million in personal income generated, and $43.5 million contributed in state and local taxes.
Mark Pope, President of the NC Global TransPark Economic Development Region, emphasized the jetport's transformative impact.
“The 2025 State of Aviation Report highlights the crucial impact of the Kinston Regional Jetport at the North Carolina Global TransPark (GTP), showcasing an impressive economic output of $781,270,000, supporting 2,995 jobs, and contributing $43,558,000 in state and local taxes,” Pope said. “This growth not only emphasizes the Global TransPark’s importance to Eastern North Carolina but also signifies a notable rise in economic activity.”
The GTP has become a hub for sectors such as Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO), hosting major companies like Spirit AeroSystems, Draken International, flyExclusive, Mountain Air Cargo, Fleet Readiness Center East, and DB Schenker. With wages exceeding regional averages, these companies provide a substantial boost to the local economy.
Recent developments at the GTP include the ongoing construction of the Fleet Readiness Center East C-130 complex, expected to add 400 new jobs, and Lenoir Community College’s new Aviation Center of Excellence, which will train workers and attract aviation-related businesses.
“Thanks to the efforts of state and local leaders in developing necessary infrastructure, the Global TransPark is poised for further expansion and job creation,” Pope added. “The current construction projects are generating revenue for the region and communities, significantly impacting rural eastern North Carolina.”
Statewide, North Carolina’s 72 publicly owned airports contribute $88 billion annually to the economy, supporting 427,000 jobs and returning $4.8 billion in state and local tax revenues, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
Known as the birthplace of aviation since the Wright Brothers' first flight in 1903, North Carolina continues to lead in aerospace innovation. The Kinston Regional Jetport stands as a testament to the state’s robust aviation sector and its capacity to drive economic growth.
For more information about the State of Aviation Report and its findings, visit NCDOT's website.
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