PLATTSBURGH — A $20 million grant for the expansion of BETA Technologies facility at Plattsburgh International Airport has been formally approved.
The project is expected to mark the next step forward for BETA, a rapidly growing company, and the region as a leading hub in the emerging field of electric aircraft technology.
“The approval of the BETA Technologies facility is a transformative development for our community and local economy,” Mark Henry, chairman of the Clinton County Legislature (R-Area 3, Chazy), said.
“This significant investment will bring high-quality jobs and state-of-the-art technology to Clinton County, strengthening our position as a crucial hub for transportation and aerospace innovation. We are profoundly grateful for Gov. (Kathy) Hochul’s unwavering support and commitment to this groundbreaking project. This facility is not only a testament to our region’s potential but also a step towards a greener and more sustainable future.”
Henry said Clinton County has been a proud partner of BETA Technologies since 2019 and the county eagerly anticipates the positive impact this project will have on the community and the broader region.
“This will undoubtedly set a new standard for economic and technological advancement,” he said.
BETA Technologies was also grateful for the opportunity.
“We’ve become embedded in Clinton County over the past few years, and this marks another step in deepening those ties,” Blain Newton, BETA Technologies’ Chief Operating Officer, said.
“New York has, time and again, proven its willingness to lead on important issues to drive economic growth, job creation, and innovation for the future. We’ve found a lot of resonance here, and are grateful to Clinton County and Gov. Hochul for their partnership as we continue to grow in this region.”
“This next step in the process for the funding of the BETA Technologies facility is a huge win for our community and economy,” Legislator Patty Waldron (D-Area 6, Saranac), chairperson of the county’s Economic Development and Operations Committee, said.
“This project brings new jobs, advanced technology, and shows our region’s bright future, thanks to Gov. Hochul’s support.”
Garry Douglas, President of the North Country Chamber of Commerce, said that the official approval of the grant by the ESD board puts the $41 million BETA Technologies facility at Plattsburgh International Airport on track.
“Gov. Hochul’s commitment of $20 million toward this historic project reflects her strategic commitment to Plattsburgh as a key international hub for transportation equipment and aerospace, securing an important place for our area and the state in the future of electric aircraft,” Douglas said.
“It is a result of three years of steady interaction with the governor and her team, identifying this special project as a top regional priority and including a visit by eight of her key staff engaged in economic development, transportation, energy, and the environment. Gov. Hochul heard us and responded, and we now look forward to the design process and construction. Onward and upward!”
“Congratulations to BETA Technologies and Clinton County on their ESD approval,” Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay Lake), said.
“I am proud to support this project that will not only bring Plattsburgh to the forefront of electric aviation technology but will also bring jobs and expand workforce development through their partnership with Champlain Valley Education Services (CVES). This is a major win for our region and I look forward to seeing this project progress.”
BETA, a leader in electronic aircraft innovation, has been operating on the flight line of Plattsburgh International Airport in the Town of Plattsburgh since 2019.
“This collaboration between New York State, BETA, and regional partners highlights the power of collaboration,” Michael Cashman, Town of Plattsburgh Supervisor, said.
“It’s fitting that this expansion is happening at the former Plattsburgh Air Force Base, once a strategic command center. Now, it will play a new strategic role as home to BETA’s new facility, driving economic growth with cutting-edge electric aircraft technology and creating high-quality local jobs. Plattsburgh is globally recognized and regionally significant, this investment reinforces our position as a leader in transportation and aerospace innovation. Special thanks to Gov. Hochul and to Beta Technologies I say… Excelsior!”