Aleut Real Estate LLC has broken ground on a $32.7 million hangar facility at Pryor Field Regional Airport in Limestone County. It is the first development in Alabama by ARE, a subsidiary of Alaska-based The Aleut Corp.
The hanger will be jointly developed with ARE and Strata-G Solutions, an Aleut-owned, Huntsville-based defense engineering and manufacturing firm.
“This groundbreaking reflects Aleut’s focus on intentional growth built on strong partnerships,” said Skoey Vergen, president and CEO of Aleut. “As demand for aviation and defense infrastructure grows across Alabama, Aleut Real Estate and Strata-G Solutions are delivering capabilities that support regional economic progress and national defense readiness. This project is made possible through close collaboration with Limestone County and the state of Alabama.”
Tax incentives were approved by Limestone County, with more than $1 million in abatements to assist with startup costs over the next 10 years. The project is expected to contribute slightly more than that to local schools during the same period.
The project will accommodate maintenance, repair and overhaul operations for commercial and military aircraft. Aircraft painting capabilities to support aircraft as large as a Lockheed C-130 will also be available. The facility will have approximately 346,000 square feet of exterior aircraft parking and tie-down space.
“This project highlights exactly the kind of forward-looking, high-impact development we work to attract to Alabama,” said Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.
The facility is expected to create 50 aviation-related positions within three years. Sitework is beginning immediately. Fite Building Co. will lead the development through the construction phase, with Design Innovation Architects serving as architect. Once operational, the hangar will include specialized infrastructure capable of supporting aircraft with wingspans exceeding 130 feet, enhancing logistical support for clients like Boeing and military branches.
It is expected to be completed in early 2027.
