MACON, Ga. — A new business is taking flight at Middle Georgia Regional Airport, bringing job opportunities and expanded services to the region.
Slate Aviation, known for providing private jet services, has opened a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) center, as well as a cabin conversion facility, at the airport.
The company’s new facility spans 80,000 square feet, providing space for aircraft repairs, upgrades, and transformations. Slate Aviation Co-owner Heather Maguire said there’s a reason they chose this site for expansion.
“Macon is a great location,” Maguire said. “It’s kind of equidistant in between New York and South Florida, which is where the majority of our airplane flights are. When we’ve got maintenance that needs to happen on our aircraft, we can bring them here to Macon, which is a fantastic location. It’s just positioned perfectly for our operation today.”
The addition of Slate Aviation’s MRO center is expected to create 50 technician jobs by the end of 2025. One of the lead technicians, Marlon Odom, said his career path is inspired by his father, who worked in the same building during his childhood.
“Throughout the years, he put a foundation in place, teaching me how to do things on my own and turn wrenches with him,” Odom said. “At first, I didn’t realize it, but I love it too.”
Slate Aviation Executive Vice President Jonathan Cornwell said the jobs are coming, and so is training.
“There’s going to be opportunities for experienced and non-experienced folks,” he said.
In addition to Slate Aviation’s facility, Macon-Bibb County officials announced plans to construct a new air traffic control center at the airport. This is part of a broader effort to enhance the airport’s capabilities, which also includes the upcoming construction of a $13 million, guitar-shaped terminal designed to service private aircraft and charter flights.
With new jobs, infrastructure investments, and expanded aviation services, Middle Georgia Regional Airport is positioning itself as a key player in the region’s economic and transportation landscape.