Hawker Beechcraft has reached an agreement with Kansas Gov. Mark Parkinson that will keep current product lines in Wichita and retain at least 4,000 jobs over the next 10 years. The agreement includes a $40 million incentive package.
The $40 million package includes $10 million over three years for tuition reimbursement and training as part of the State of Kansas Investments in Lifelong Learning (SKILL) funds of the program. The SKILL funds may be used for employees attending the National Aviation Training Center, Wichita State University, or any of the other Kansas Regents’ institutions. Hawker Beechcraft will also receive $10 million in the first year, followed by $5 million each year for the next four years for other expenses related to the project, such as the purchase or relocation of equipment, product development, labor recruitment, or building costs.
“Today’s announcement marks a key point in the future of Hawker Beechcraft,” Boisture said. “With the acceptance of this agreement, we are committing to be successful as a Wichita, Kansas and U.S.-based private company and preserving a valued American industry in tomorrow’s aviation markets.
“With the strong level of commitment to our people and their skills enhancement, we intend to have the best trained work force in the industry to power the development, manufacturing, and projection of our diversified product line of business turbine aircraft, trainers, and special mission offerings to emerging global markets from here in Kansas.”
The city of Wichita and Sedgwick County have also agreed in principle to each provide $2.5 million over the course of five years.
Boisture said the new incentive package does not reverse cost savings efforts previously announced. “It preserves a base,” he said.
Alton K. Marsh
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