FlightSafety International has announced plans to expand its presence in Arizona with the construction of a new 100,000-square-foot Learning Center at Mesa Gateway Airport. The project is scheduled to break ground in October 2025 and is expected to open in early 2028.
The company, which already operates a Learning Center in Tucson, aims to address increasing demand for aviation training. The new Mesa facility will feature full-flight simulators and advanced training devices, serving pilots, maintenance technicians, and cabin crews. It is designed to scale over time as demand grows.
Barbara Telek, President of FlightSafety International, stated: “This expansion is a reflection of FlightSafety’s continued growth and long-term investment in the future of aviation training and safety. As global demand rises, we’re scaling our operations to support our customers and advance the highest standards of safety and preparedness. The new Mesa Learning Center strengthens our ability to deliver world-class training while supporting the aviation workforce in Arizona and across the industry.”
The center is projected to create about 100 jobs as operations begin, with potential for further growth. In addition to direct employment opportunities, thousands of aviation professionals are expected to visit Mesa each year for training. This influx could benefit local hotels, restaurants, and service providers through increased tourism and business travel activity.
Gila River Indian Community Lt. Governor Regina Antone, Board Chair of the Mesa Gateway Airport Authority, commented: “FlightSafety’s decision to expand in Mesa is a major win for our region. This project will bring meaningful economic impact and reinforce Mesa’s leadership position in the global aviation landscape.”
Arizona continues to be an important location for aerospace innovation due to its established base of manufacturing, engineering, and service providers throughout the state. Its infrastructure and proximity to major aviation hubs make it a strategic choice for this expansion.
Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman said: “Mesa is proud to welcome FlightSafety to our community. This facility will not only serve aviation professionals from around the globe, but it will also showcase Mesa as a city where innovation, training excellence, and economic growth go hand in hand.”
The announcement aligns with FlightSafety’s ongoing strategy to broaden access to high-quality aviation training while supporting local communities.
