Building the future of aerospace in South Carolina
South Carolina has become one of the nation’s leading aerospace manufacturing hubs, with global companies producing aircraft, components, systems and advanced technologies across the state.
Aerospace continues to grow, innovate and move forward
Since Boeing selected North Charleston for its 787 final assembly and delivery facility in 2009, the industry has expanded into a highly connected aerospace ecosystem spanning manufacturing, maintenance, engineering, software development and advanced materials. Today, more than 500 aerospace and aviation-related companies operate in South Carolina, supporting one of the fastest-growing aerospace sectors in the country.
Aerospace generates an economic impact exceeding $38.3 billion and supports more than 143,000 jobs statewide, reinforcing its role as a major driver of South Carolina’s manufacturing economy.
From aircraft assembly and MRO operations to next-generation aerospace technologies, companies in South Carolina benefit from a highly skilled workforce experienced in precision manufacturing and complex industrial production.
Aerospace is driving growth in South Carolina
Download the aerospace industry snapshot
Where aerospace leaders manufacture and innovate
A strong military and defense presence supports South Carolina’s aerospace industry
South Carolina’s aerospace ecosystem is strengthened by a longstanding military and defense presence across the state.
Major military installations support aviation operations, logistics, engineering and technical workforce development while contributing to a highly skilled talent pipeline with experience in complex systems, maintenance and advanced technologies. With more than 360,000 veterans living in South Carolina, the state continues to benefit from a workforce shaped by leadership, technical expertise and mission-critical experience.
Key military installations across South Carolina include:
Infrastructure built to support the aerospace industry
South Carolina’s aerospace industry is supported by a highly connected operational environment built for advanced manufacturing, global logistics and complex supply chains.
Built for faster growth
Shovel-ready industrial sites, competitive operating costs and a pro-business tax structure further support companies launching, expanding and scaling operations in South Carolina.
Global market access
Strategic access to ports, rail and interstate infrastructure allows aerospace companies to efficiently move aircraft components, systems and materials across domestic and international markets.
Strong aerospace ecosystem
With a thriving aerospace supplier network and established manufacturing ecosystem, the state provides the infrastructure needed to support long-term aerospace growth.
An aerospace workforce built to support precision manufacturing, engineering and advanced aviation technologies
From aircraft assembly and maintenance to composites, systems integration and flight simulation, companies benefit from a talent pipeline shaped by technical colleges, research universities and industry partnerships across the state.
Sites ready for aerospace growth
From certified industrial parks to shovel-ready properties, South Carolina offers site options across regions and communities statewide. Explore available properties using our interactive map, with filters for size, infrastructure and incentives.
A business environment designed to support long-term aerospace growth and investment
Performance-based incentives reward companies for job creation and capital investment, helping aerospace manufacturers and suppliers launch, expand and scale operations efficiently. Combined with a competitive tax structure and pro-business operating environment, the state helps companies reduce costs while supporting long-term operational success.
These advantages help aerospace companies compete globally from South Carolina.
- No state property tax
- No inventory tax or wholesale tax
- No sales tax on manufacturing machinery, industrial power or materials used in finished products
- No unitary tax on worldwide profits
- A competitive corporate income tax structure with no local income tax
Job tax credit
A statutory tax credit available to qualifying new and expanding companies that create and maintain net new full-time jobs in South Carolina. Credit value varies based on the number of jobs created and the county where they are located.
Investment tax credit
Qualifying manufacturers may receive an income tax credit equal to 0.5% to 2.5% of the cost of eligible manufacturing and productive equipment, depending on the property’s recovery period.
Research & development equipment sales tax exemption
To support innovation in SC, machinery and equipment purchased for R&D may be eligible for a state and local sales tax exemption.
Eaton expanding Charleston County operations
$46 million investment in aerospace manufacturing will create more than 50 new jobs
Woodward, Inc. selects Spartanburg County to establish a new manufacturing site in South Carolina
Nearly $200 million investment will create approximately 275 new jobsATI grows South Carolina footprint with new operation in Chesterfield County
Manufacturing facility will operate with nearly 70 new jobsInterested in aerospace in South Carolina?
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Connect with our Business Development team to discuss your company’s plans and learn more about South Carolina’s aerospace opportunities.
