Doing Business in SC – South Carolina Aerospace Industry

As a right-to-work state with a visible commitment to developing a qualified workforce, South Carolina is recognized as one of the best places for aerospace companies to do business.

While unionization rates are low, training and education programs are at an all-time high with aerospace and manufacturing-related curriculum in place from the elementary to college levels. This includes over 35 programs, a variety of aircraft maintenance, welding, and mechatronics programs at all 16 technical colleges, and highly ranked automotive and aerospace degree programs at Clemson University and the University of South Carolina.

2020 Aerospace Data & Trends

**See why South Carolina is Just Right for Aerospace**

A Strong Aerospace Presence

South Carolina is home to over 400 private aerospace firms and 4 military bases.
South Carolina ranked #3 in export sales of aircraft, spacecraft, and parts thereof in 2019 with a total of $12.42 Billion.

A Robust Economic Impact

The aerospace industry adds $14.13 billion to the state’s GDP.
$28.8 billion in total economic impact of Aerospace in SC.

A Ready Workforce

SC has more than 136,000 aerospace employees.
$81,114 in annual total employee compensation for aerospace employees in SC in salary and benefits.
For every 1 aerospace job, 2.7 additional jobs are created.

A Competitive Business Environment

70 million tons of freight move through SC each year thanks to our extensive rail service, including 2 Class 1 railroads.
South Carolina accounted for 9.1% of the total US market share for the export sales of aircraft, spacecraft, etc.
The estimated increase in tax revenue from SC Aerospace in 2019 was $734,575,385

A Strong Aerospace Presence

South Carolina is home to over 400 private aerospace firms and 4 military bases.
South Carolina ranked #3 in export sales of aircraft, spacecraft, and parts thereof in 2019 with a total of $12.42 Billion.

A Robust Economic Impact

The aerospace industry adds $14.13 billion to the state’s GDP.
$28.8 billion in total economic impact of Aerospace in SC.

A Ready Workforce

SC has more than 136,000 aerospace employees.
$81,114 in annual total employee compensation for aerospace employees in SC in salary and benefits.
For every 1 aerospace job, 2.7 additional jobs are created.

A Competitive Business Environment

70 million tons of freight move through SC each year thanks to our extensive rail service, including 2 Class 1 railroads.
South Carolina accounted for 9.1% of the total US market share for the export sales of aircraft, spacecraft, etc.
The estimated increase in tax revenue from SC Aerospace in 2019 was $734,575,385

To learn more about how South Carolina is Just Right for your business, connect with the South Carolina Department of Commerce to learn more and begin the process.