Boeing Makes Aviation History at Gary/Chicago Airport

GARY-At an open house event held on Monday, June 23th, The Boeing Company dedicated its new aircraft maintenance hangar at the Gary/Chicago Airport. Boeing executives, pilots and crew from both the Chicago headquarters and Seattle locations were extended Hoosier hospitality by a regional team including Mayor Scott L. King-City of Gary, Indiana Governor Frank O'Bannon, Indiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita, the Gary/Chicago Airport Authority as well as regional corporate leaders and hangar contractors.

Boeing, a giant in the global aviation industry, gave the Gary/Chicago Airport a vote of confidence when it selected the airport's new 50,000 sq. ft. aircraft maintenance hangar as the permanent home for its Midwest corporate jet fleet. "Gary and Indiana's business and civic leaders have been tremendous partners in the relocation of our corporate fleet to the Gary/Chicago Airport." said Boeing Executive Vice President and Chief People and Administrative Officer, Laurette Koellner. "Boeing's investment in the airport will continue to benefit both Gary and Boeing for many years to come."

Constructed with an eye on the future, the aircraft maintenance hangar was built to attract tenants such as Boeing. Mayor Scott L. King said, "Because we had this facility already in place, we are in the position we are today."

The 50,000 sq. ft. aircraft maintenance hangar project at Gary/Chicago Airport included an overall remodeling of 5,000 sq. ft of existing space, a 10,000 sq. ft build out of the second floor, 3,500 sq. ft of catering space and a build out of the main lobby. The hangar and office building is expected to house 35 employees by year's end and features internet access, fully equipped parts room and maintenance shop, international weather access and display systems, conference rooms, fitness facility, suite of rooms for flight crews and a technical library.

William L. Staehle, Gary/Chicago Airport Authority Chairman states "Gary/Chicago Airport will eventually be home to five corporate jets, including a 737 Boeing Business Jet used by CEO Phil Condit and other top executives. Boeing's selection of this airport tells the world that we have the right capacity, the right location and the right deal!"

Bill Roberson, Director of Boeing Executive Flight Operations stated "The Gary/Chicago Airport provided a solution to Boeing's need to house its Midwest corporate jet fleet in one location. The decision was based on efficiency and cost reduction."

When Boeing first publicly discussed the possibility of moving its corporate headquarters to Chicago, Airport Administrator Paul Karas discussed Gary/Chicago's potential as a site for the Boeing fleet. When Boeing decided to move to Chicago, Karas organized an economic development team to pursue Boeing which successfully culminated in Monday's event. Karas said, "The Boeing decision is a tremendous boost to the airport, in terms of new jobs, activity and prestige which will generate dividends for a long time."