• 7.18.24
• Member News

ESD Approves $20M Grant for BETA Technologies’ Expansion at Plattsburgh International Airport

The Clinton County Legislature proudly welcomes the official approval by the Empire State Development (ESD) Board for a $20 million grant directed to the $41 million expansion of BETA Technologies’ facility at Plattsburgh International Airport. This milestone – which follows several years of rapid growth for the company – marks the next step forward for the region, solidifying Clinton County 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,” said Mark Henry, Chairman of the Clinton County Legislature (R-Area 3, Chazy). “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 Governor 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. Clinton County has been a proud partner of BETA Technologies since 2019 and we eagerly anticipate the positive impact this project will have on our community and the broader region. This will undoubtedly set a new standard for economic and technological advancement.”

“We’ve become embedded in Clinton County over the past few years, and this marks another step in deepening those ties,” said Blain Newton, BETA Technologies’ Chief Operating Officer. “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 Governor 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," said Patty Waldron, Chairperson of the Economic Development & Operations Committee for Clinton County. "This project brings new jobs, advanced technology, and shows our region's bright future, thanks to Governor Hochul's support."

Garry Douglas, President of the North Country Chamber of Commerce, added, "This official action by the ESD board puts the $41 million BETA Technologies facility at Plattsburgh International Airport on track. Governor 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. 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. Governor 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,” said Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay Lake). “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.”

"This collaboration between New York State, BETA, and regional partners highlights the power of collaboration,” said Michael Cashman, Plattsburgh Town Supervisor. “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 Governor Hochul and to Beta Technologies I say… Excelsior!"                                                                                    

The BETA Technologies facility is set to be a cornerstone of innovation at Plattsburgh International Airport, contributing significantly to the local economy and the advancement of electric aviation. With this approval, the company’s expansion plans can begin in earnest – set to take place over the coming years. The Clinton County Legislature, along with its partners, is committed to ensuring the project's success and looks forward to the positive developments it will bring to the region.