Michael Stewart
Vice President, External Affairs
Jacksonville Aviation Authority
Ph: (904) 741-2721
Cell: (904) 945-6300
Jacksonville City Council Approves Funding for Otto Aviation
JAA Celebrates Major Aviation Partnership to Boost Economic Development
JACKSONVILLE, FL, June 10, 2025 – The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) today applauds the Jacksonville City Council’s approval of a Revenue Enhancement Value grant for up to $20 million to support Otto Aviation’s planned manufacturing and production facility at Cecil Airport.
The Texas-based aviation company plans to invest up to $430 million in two phases at Cecil Airport to build “next- generation” business jets that can travel farther on less fuel than rival aircraft and relocate its headquarters to Jacksonville.
“The City Council’s approval of this investment demonstrates our community’s commitment to fostering innovative aviation businesses that create jobs and economic opportunities for our residents,” said JAA CEO Mark VanLoh. “We’re excited to welcome Otto Aviation to Cecil Airport and look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on our region.”
Last month, the JAA Board of Directors unanimously approved a $34.9 million package of investments and incentives for the manufacturing facility.
With all the funding pieces now in place, JAA and Otto today executed an agreement for Otto to temporarily lease a former Boeing Co. hangar at Cecil Airport. Construction of new facility to produce its Phantom 3500 aircraft on 80 to 100 acres of vacant land at the airfield is expected to begin in 2027. Coupled with Otto’s development plans for the eastside, it represents the largest investment and potential job creator for any new development, or tenant, in JAA history.
The Otto Aviation contract is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the Jacksonville area, including job creation, increased tax revenue, and enhanced aviation capabilities at Cecil Airport. The agreement aligns with the strategic visions of JAA and JAXUSA to position Jacksonville as a premier aviation destination in the Southeast.
“Otto Aviation’s decision to establish their manufacturing and production facilities here in Jacksonville reinforces the region’s standing as a leader in the aerospace industry,” said JAXUSA Partnership President Aundra Wallace. “We look forward to supporting their growth and long-term success in Northeast Florida.”
Working in collaboration with the company, JAA will be looking to leverage this agreement and Otto’s presence at Cecil Airport to identify and meet with other prospective tenants and development partners.
While the Boeing Shockwave project kick-started Cecil’s eastside by addressing growth needs for an existing tenant, the Otto development is the culmination of years of planning and investment; all to attract a new aviation company looking to build aircraft in Jacksonville.