Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger helped cut the ribbon on the new Piasecki Aircraft Corporation facility in Coatesville. The company, through the Chester County Industrial Development Authority, is receiving a $2.5 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant through the Commonwealth for the project.
PiAC acquired the former Lockheed Martin Sikorsky Heliplex facility, which previously served as a production and delivery center for Sikorsky’s S-76 and S-92 helicopters. The company plans to transform the 219,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility into an advanced R&D center, which will build and test its forthcoming PA-890 helicopter — the world’s first zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell rotorcraft.
“Piasecki continues to grow, build the local economy, and develop their research, development, and productions capabilities. Having this company choose to expand in the Commonwealth sends a strong message to the world that Pennsylvania is open for business,” said Secretary Siger.
The Coatesville facility, which also includes space for engineering development, aircraft assembly, paint and finishing facilities, and a well-equipped production flight test and delivery center, will open to employees this Fall.
“This world-class facility will serve as a strong foundation for future growth and will enable us to expand our R&D and production capabilities as we deliver transformational vertical lift technologies to the defense and commercial markets,” said John Piasecki, CEO of PiAC. “We chose to expand our development capabilities in the Delaware Valley because of its deep roots within the helicopter industry, its highly-talented workforce, and its robust supplier network. PiAC is committed to creating local jobs by fostering cutting-edge innovation and we’re excited to support a community that has long prided itself on delivering aviation excellence.”
“We are delighted that we could provide the local coordination for this project,” said Gary W. Smith, CEO, Chester County Economic Development Council. “We will continue to stand alongside Piasecki as they grow their presence in the ecosystem.”
