Governor Kathy Hochul announced a $41 million expansion of BETA Technologies' facility at Plattsburgh International Airport in upstate New York. The facility will serve as the manufacturing and final assembly hub for BETA's all-electric aircraft and establish a flight test and delivery center. This expansion is supported by investors such as Fidelity Management & Research Co. and Amazon.com Inc. and aims to develop environmentally-friendly electric airplanes. It is part of the state's $1 billion push for zero-emissions vehicles over the next five years.
BETA's all-electric aircraft generates zero operational emissions and can be recharged in under an hour. The company is also creating a nationwide electric charging network. The expansion is expected to create 85 full-time jobs and deepen BETA's commitment to developing aerospace technology in New York State. BETA is partnering with local schools and businesses to develop the workforce in Clinton County.
Governor Hochul's investments in clean transportation infrastructure and the state's goal of achieving a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040 align with BETA's expansion. The North Country region of New York State is known for its transportation equipment and aerospace companies, making it an attractive location for BETA's expansion. This move reflects the state's efforts to attract green jobs and businesses to the region.
In addition to the expansion of BETA Technologies' facility, Governor Hochul has also announced the start of a project to transform Ogdensburg International Airport into a regional transportation hub. The project, which received $18 million in funding, will include expanding check-in, ticketing, and baggage drop-off areas, constructing a new canopy, installing new passenger information display systems, and creating a multi-purpose great room. The total estimated cost of the project is $21.5 million, and it is expected to create 195 jobs. The Ogdensburg International Airport was one of nine upstate airports awarded a total of $230 million in funding from the Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition. The project is scheduled to be completed by spring 2025.
Furthermore, Breeze Airways is expanding its offerings of flights at Plattsburgh International Airport. The airline recently announced the addition of two direct flights from Vermont’s Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport to Orlando, Florida and Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina. The flights are set to begin on February 14 and May 23, respectively. Breeze is also kicking off its seasonal Tampa service at Plattsburgh International Airport, with flights now available on Mondays and Fridays until the end of April. Additionally, Breeze plans to announce two different destinations for Plattsburgh soon. The airline has been generally well received, with positive feedback about spacious seating, affordable Wi-Fi, and good service. However, the Tuesday flight to Orlando has been struggling to fill up. Clinton County Legislator Bobby Hall expressed disappointment that Breeze chose to expand in Burlington before Plattsburgh, emphasizing the importance of community support to ensure more flights in the future.
Governor Hochul's investments in clean transportation infrastructure include the expansion of BETA Technologies' facility, the start of the project to modernize Ogdensburg International Airport, and Breeze Airways' planned expansion at Plattsburgh International Airport. These initiatives aim to develop environmentally-friendly electric airplanes, create jobs, and promote economic growth in upstate New York. [76339a82] [2640ae50] [c0be048f]