Boeing supplier invests in Clark

MANILA, Philippines —  The Clark Civil Aviation Complex has gained another locator that could build up its profile as a premier aviation investment destination, landing a 25-year lease with a key supplier for aircraft maker Boeing.

The complex’s manager Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) yesterday said it has signed a 25-year agreement with Heatcon Asia Inc. for its lease in Clark.

Heatcon will build a manufacturing, distribution and in-shop composite repair facility in Clark, marking another aviation partner for CIAC.

Heatcon, founded in 1978, makes hot bonders, heat blankets and other parts to both commercial and military aviators. Heatcon’s biggest customer is aerospace giant Boeing.

CIAC president and CEO Joseph Alcazar said the agreement signals another win for the agency, as it works on turning Clark into a preferred destination for aviation investors. Likewise, CIAC is doubling down on its mandate to entice high-value investments, such as in aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) service.

“This investment represents a significant milestone in Clark’s continued emergence as a leading aviation and aerospace hub,” Alcazar said.

“Heatcon’s facilities support major aviation players in the region, including Boeing, and they are expected to further strengthen Clark’s position as an attractive destination for MRO services,” he added.

On top of this, Heatcon is expected to pull other industry players to establish a presence in Clark, especially if they want to connect to its expanding chain of aviation suppliers.

For Heatcon, the new Clark facility will serve as its designated hub for customers in Asia and the Pacific. The builder also wants to take advantage of the recovering air traffic in Clark, propelled by the expansion of flight services at the Clark International Airport.

CIAC, the state-run firm running the Clark Civil Aviation Complex, is negotiating with potential investors in the commercial, industrial and warehousing segments of the aviation industry. Aside from this, it is convincing domestic locators to set up expansion facilities in Clark.

The CIAC manages the Clark Civil Aviation Complex, a 2,367-hectare property where the Clark International Airport is located.

The airport, one of the country’s busiest gateways, is expected to grow its passenger traffic to 3.1 million this year, and this is going to require more airline services and aviation support.