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STENNIS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AWARDED $1.5 MILLION GRANT TO MODERNIZE AEROSPACE FACILITIES

  • Writer: Taylor Ladner
    Taylor Ladner
  • 2 days ago
  • 2 min read

May 7, 2026

KILN, MS: Stennis International Airport is pleased to announce it has been awarded a $1.5 million grant from the Strategic Multi-Modal Investments Fund (SMIF). These funds are designated for significant facility upgrades to Hangars 3 and 4, furthering the airport’s goal of strengthening its position as a premier hub for aerospace Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) operations.


The planned modernization initiative will transform the existing infrastructure to better accommodate the needs of modern aviation industry partners. By updating these facilities, Stennis International Airport aims to enhance operational efficiency and attract new, high-growth maintenance projects to the region.


 Key improvements include:

  • HVAC Installation: Implementation of modern climate control systems to ensure a safe, energy-efficient, and comfortable working environment.

  • Crane Installation: Integration of industrial-grade lifting systems to provide the heavy-duty capabilities required for modern aircraft maintenance.

  • Office Buildouts and Renovations: Modernizing and expanding administrative and operational spaces to support incoming project teams and workflows.


“We are extremely grateful to the Mississippi Department of Transportation for this $1.5 million investment from the agency’s Strategic Multi-Modal Investment fund (SMIF) in Stennis International Airport. These critical enhancements to our hangars, ranging from HVAC installation and crane capability to modernized office buildouts, represent a significant step forward in enhancing our operational capacity while ensuring we have maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities that meet the modern needs of MRO facilities. This funding allows us to better support aviation businesses and upcoming programs, attract new MRO industry partners, and solidify Stennis as a competitive hub for aerospace activity along the Gulf Coast. We appreciate MDOT’s continued commitment to strengthening aviation infrastructure across Mississippi and at Stennis International Airport.”
-Austin Jenkins, Airport Director

About Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission  

 

As the county economic development authority, the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission is committed to fostering business investment and job creation. Their focus lies in attracting manufacturing, defense, aviation, and aerospace-related projects to the county. The organization manages the Stennis International Airport and Port Bienville Industrial Park, while also providing support to the Stennis Space Center, NASA’s leading facility for rocket engine testing. 

 

 

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