Abilene Regional Airport
ABI Development:
Strategic Growth, Infrastructure, & Opportunity
ABI and the Future of Texas Commerce
Texas is gaining over 1,500 residents per day, with more than 4 million new Texans expected by 2036. As demand grows for modern infrastructure to support industry, logistics, healthcare, and innovation, Abilene Regional Airport (ABI) stands ready to meet the moment with forward-looking solutions that position Abilene as a competitive destination for business and investment.
Located near major highways and freight routes in West Central Texas, ABI offers businesses a multimodal transportation hub that complements road and rail logistics. This connectivity makes ABI a natural anchor for companies seeking operational efficiency, a ready workforce, and streamlined access to regional and global markets.
ABI Development Overview
Download the ABI Development One Sheet.
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ABI’s Collaborative Advantage
ABI supports a range of specialized industries and educational institutions that form the foundation of a strong workforce pipeline. Texas State Technical College (TSTC) provides FAA-certified aviation maintenance programs designed to align with airport-related industries and train the next generation of skilled technicians.
These efforts are complemented by a regional network of higher education institutions—including Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene Christian University, Hardin-Simmons University, McMurry University, and ATEMS, a STEM-focused public high school—that collectively support professional development and talent retention across sectors.
ABI’s location near Dyess Air Force Base further strengthens the region’s economic resilience. Dyess serves as a vital partner in both workforce development and infrastructure coordination, while also contributing to national defense logistics and emergency response collaboration.
The airport also plays a vital role in statewide emergency response through its partnership with the Texas A&M Forest Service, helping coordinate aerial firefighting and disaster readiness operations throughout West Texas.
ABI also supports the region’s expansive healthcare network, anchored by Hendrick Health, a major provider whose operations rely on reliable air travel to maintain access for patients, providers, and specialists across the Big Country and beyond.
Energy and Innovation at the Crossroads
Abilene’s energy landscape spans both legacy and emerging sectors. Situated in the heart of West Texas, the city benefits from traditional oil and gas infrastructure, renewable wind and solar energy, and growing investment in grid reliability. A prime example is the Stargate AI Data Center, currently under development on Lancium’s Clean Campus in Abilene. The project—led by Crusoe and powered by renewable energy and advanced power management—reflects a new wave of energy-conscious innovation taking root in the region. As this growth continues, ABI’s location and multimodal access make it a strategic asset for businesses operating at the intersection of technology, logistics, and energy.
A Location Built for Enterprise
ABI connects travelers to global destinations through nonstop commercial flights to DFW International Airport—just one stop away from every major business hub in the world.
Our region is:
- Strategically positioned along state and national supply chains
- Competitive in cost and rich in public-private partnerships
- A smart choice for companies seeking speed, efficiency, and connectivity
Whether you’re moving goods, people, or ideas—ABI is your regional advantage.
Business-Ready Development Zones
Abilene Regional Airport features more than 280 acres of prime airside and landside acreage available for development—ideally suited to:
- Aeronautical operations (hangars, MRO, cargo)
- Corporate and business aviation support
- Non-aeronautical commercial, logistics, or light industrial development
Three designated areas offer flexible siting options:
- Area A – East Development Area (157.87 acres): Adjacent to the airfield; ideal for aviation-focused development
- Area B – West Development Area (61.74 acres): Suitable for both airside and landside uses
- Area C – South Perimeter Area (63.11 acres): Long-term potential for logistics, warehousing, or support services
A Thriving Aviation Ecosystem
ABI is already home to a diverse network of aviation, logistics, education, and transportation partners whose presence strengthens the airport’s role as a regional hub—and creates opportunities for future collaboration.
Tenants include:
- Eagle Aviation Services, Inc. (EASI) – A 24/7 MRO facility performing heavy maintenance on American Eagle aircraft, employing 400+ personnel including FAA-certified A&P mechanics and support staff across logistics, quality assurance, and production control.
- Freeman Jet Center – A full-service FBO offering 24/7 fueling, aircraft maintenance, and support for general and corporate aviation.
- FedEx – Operating daily express cargo flights that connect regional businesses to national and international supply chains.
- TSTC – Running an on-site aviation maintenance training program that builds a skilled workforce for aviation-related careers.
- Avis, Payless, Enterprise, National, Hertz, & Thrifty – Offering convenient, on-site car rentals that support ground mobility for incoming travelers.
- Lytle Aviation – FAA Part 61 flight school providing introductory flights and personalized flight instruction for aspiring pilots.
- EAA Chapter 471 – A local chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association that fosters community among aviation enthusiasts, promotes hands-on education, and inspires the next generation of aviators through free youth flights.
- Skyline Aviation Training Academy – FAA Part 141 and Part 61 flight school offering fixed-wing and helicopter training, and serving as Angelo State University’s exclusive flight training partner.
- Turbolyft – Advanced avionics and helicopter-modernization company providing custom engineering, Y-Series products, and completions services with locations in Abilene, Texas; Burlington, Washington; and Pitt Meadows, British.
This ecosystem offers built-in synergies for businesses seeking access to skilled labor, supply chain services, corporate travel infrastructure, and aviation-aligned partnerships.
Infrastructure That Enables Growth
ABI is investing in foundational infrastructure to support future business operations:
- ABINext Terminal Expansion & Improvements Project – Bond approved in May 2025; includes expanded boarding and security checkpoint areas, a new first-floor lobby, improved amenities, and major mechanical improvements.
- Wildfire Response Base – Developed as an expanded base in partnership with the Texas A&M Forest Service, this facility enhances the region’s aerial firefighting capabilities and serves as a launch point for rapid deployment across West Texas. It improves response times, supports seasonal and emergency operations, and positions ABI as a key player in protecting communities, infrastructure, and natural resources during increasingly severe wildfire seasons.
These investments strengthen reliability, expand operational capacity, and ensure ABI is positioned to meet growing business and community needs.
Invest with Confidence
Abilene Regional Airport is ready to support your growth. Whether you’re looking to expand operations, increase regional access, or invest in long-term development, ABI offers the infrastructure, connectivity, and partnerships to make it happen.
