Oklahoma City negotiating for aircraft maintenance center

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – Oklahoma City officials are beginning negotiations with a regional airline to bring an aircraft maintenance center to the city.

The Oklahoman reports the city’s Economic Development Trust authorized staff Tuesday to begin negotiations with SkyWest Airlines Inc. on a $2 million economic incentive deal.

SkyWest would have to create at least 375 jobs within five years and generate a payroll of almost $25 million by the center’s third year of operation to qualify for the incentive.

Airline and city officials say the Will Rogers World Airport maintenance building is expected to cost up to $30 million.

Trust officials say the center is expected to have an economic impact of over $325 million during its first three years. A SkyWest spokeswoman says the company hopes to open the center next year.