PARIS — Alabama’s aerospace ambitions were on full display this week as a delegation of communities, universities and economic development partners joined forces to promote the state’s growing role in the global aerospace and defense landscape at the 2025 Paris Air Show.

From North Alabama’s innovation corridor to South Alabama’s aviation hubs, participants joined the team for the Alabama Department of Commerce to emphasize the state’s unified approach to attracting international investment and expanding its aerospace footprint.

“Attending the Paris Air Show is a strategic investment in our city’s future,” Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller said. “We’re showcasing Opelika as a destination for aerospace growth — highlighting our skilled workforce, robust infrastructure, and strong community partnerships.

“We’re looking to build relationships with global industry leaders and bring quality jobs and innovation back home.”

Representatives from across the state used the show as a platform to forge new connections, deepen existing partnerships and reinforce Alabama’s role as a global leader in aerospace, defense and space innovation.

Montgomery, home to Maxwell Air Force Base and Air University, presented a compelling case for aerospace expansion in the region.

“Montgomery’s presence at the Paris Air Show reflects our strategic focus on growing Alabama’s aerospace footprint in the capital region and strengthening global partnerships,” said Lori Williams, Director of Economic Development for the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce.

She said the Montgomery region is uniquely positioned to support advanced manufacturing and global supply chain operations, thanks to more than 2,000 shovel-ready acres, over 1.5 million square feet of move-in-ready industrial space and a direct CSX rail connection to the Port of Mobile through a new inland port.

“Our goal in Paris is to ensure the world sees Montgomery as mission-ready and built for growth,” Williams said.

Alabama aerospace industry — U.S. Senator Katie Britt speaks to Dr. Charles Karr, President of the University of Alabama in Huntsville, at the 2025 Paris Air Show. UAH is a major supporter of the North Alabama’s mission at international air shows.

North Alabama — home to Redstone Arsenal, NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, and a dense concentration of aerospace companies — once again drew attention for its coordinated outreach.

“The North Alabama community does a terrific job of advertising itself at the airshow,” said Dr. Charles Karr, President of The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH). “From our delegation and elected officials to the chambers of commerce, so many people dedicate their time and energy working to develop and enhance the relationships that are necessary to bring outstanding companies to our community.

“Prospective companies want to see that we’re committed to providing a strong workforce and educational opportunities — and that’s what UAH delivers.”

In Southeast Alabama, the presence of Fort Novosel and a strong Army Aviation heritage are key pillars of the region’s aerospace identity.

“The Paris Air Show is a tremendous opportunity for Southeast Gas to showcase the strength of Southeast Alabama’s aerospace industry in partnership with the State of Alabama and our economic development allies,” said Vince Perez, Director of Economic Development for Southeast Gas.

“With the vital role Army Aviation plays at Fort Novosel, we’re proud to support efforts that highlight our region’s economic strength, workforce, and commitment to advancing aviation on a global stage,” he said.

Auburn’s contingent echoed the sentiment, highlighting progress made during the show.

“I thought the show was well organized with the Alabama delegation, and as far as our contacts, that went really well,” said Phillip Dunlap, Auburn’s Economic Development Director. “We accomplished what we came for. We’ve got a couple of projects in the works with some companies we’ve been working with for a while.

“We think there is going to be positive results from the show,” he added.

During the Alabama Aerospace Reception on Monday evening, U.S. Senator Katie Britt reaffirmed Alabama’s global stature in the aerospace and defense sectors.

“We are a leader not just in our region, not just in our country but literally across the entire world,” Britt said. “Look at the incredible things we are doing.”