AAR to Construct 200,000‑sq‑ft MRO Hangar at Rockford Airport, Creating 500 Jobs

AAR, in partnership with the Greater Rockford Airport Authority (GRAA) and key state leaders, has secured an agreement to construct a new maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility on the grounds of Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD).

The 200,000‑sq‑ft hangar will operate 24 hours a day, servicing next‑generation wide‑body aircraft and offering comprehensive scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, modifications, and overhaul for both military and commercial fleets.

Final agreements are currently being refined, with construction slated to begin within the year and the facility expected to open in spring 2016. The hangar will be situated in the mid‑field area of the airport.

Rockford joins AAR’s six existing MRO locations in Duluth, Oklahoma City, Miami, Lake Charles, Indianapolis, and Hot Springs. The site was selected for its central location, cost effectiveness, abundant technical talent, and supportive development environment, as well as the region’s strong supply chain.

“This is a monumental economic and workforce development opportunity for RFD and the Rockford region,” said Mike Dunn, RFD Executive Director. “We look forward to welcoming AAR and are grateful for the collaboration and tireless dedication of Gov. Quinn, Sen. Durbin and all partners to make this a reality.”

Gov. Quinn announced a $15 million state investment through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) from Build Illinois bond funds, and an additional $600 000 to cover training costs for new employees.

For more information, visit www.aarcorp.com.