SkyWest Airlines, the largest regional carrier in the United States, has announced the establishment of its 13th maintenance base at Shreveport Regional Airport. This strategic move is set to create 150 direct jobs with an average annual salary of $70,000—approximately 27% above the parish average wage—and is projected to generate an additional 375 indirect jobs, totaling 525 new positions in Northwest Louisiana.
The new facility will support SkyWest’s fleet of nearly 500 aircraft, which operate through partnerships with major airlines including United, Delta, American, and Alaska Airlines. The maintenance base is expected to be operational in the second half of 2025.
Louisiana Economic Development (LED) has facilitated this project with a comprehensive incentives package, including workforce development solutions through FastStart, a $750,000 performance-based grant with matching funds from LED, Caddo Parish, and the Caddo Parish Industrial Development Board, and up to $200,000 in energy efficiency grants from AEP SWEPCO.
Governor Jeff Landry highlighted the collaborative effort behind this initiative, stating, “SkyWest’s decision to locate a maintenance facility here represents the whole-of-government approach we have been taking during my administration, rallying state and local stakeholders to put local economies first.”
Local leaders have also expressed strong support for the project. Caddo Parish Commission President Stormy Gage-Watts remarked on the economic benefits, noting that the investment will bring skilled jobs to the community and strengthen the local labor force. Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux emphasized the role of the airport as an economic engine for the region, and Director of Airports Larry Blackwell welcomed SkyWest, highlighting the opportunity for improved air service and career opportunities.
SkyWest’s expansion into Shreveport aligns with Louisiana’s strategic focus on aerospace and logistics sectors, leveraging the state’s skilled workforce, access to major ports, and competitive business environment. With over 8,000 Louisianans already employed in the aerospace and defense industry, this development is poised to further enhance the state’s position in the sector.
