The Gazebo Gazette

MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST (GG) — Stennis International Airport on the Mississippi Gulf Coast announces an award of 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  ub 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,” said Austin Jenkins, Stennis Airport Director. “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.”

The Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission 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.