EPC Aerospace Establishes U.S. Headquarters at Orlando Airport

EPC Aerospace Plants U.S. Flag at Orlando International Airport

In a significant move for the global aviation sector, EPC Aerospace, a disabled veteran-owned and operated company, has officially launched its U.S. headquarters at Orlando International Airport (MCO). This development is not merely a new office on a map; it represents the foundational step in an ambitious global expansion strategy. By acquiring and rebranding the existing Sky Aerospace Engineering LLC, EPC Aerospace has firmly anchored its American operations in a region rapidly becoming synonymous with aerospace innovation. This strategic decision signals a strong vote of confidence in Orlando’s robust infrastructure and specialized talent pool.

The establishment of this headquarters is the first phase of a planned global network of advanced MRO centers. This network, which will eventually include facilities in the United Kingdom and Australia, is designed to create an integrated support system for both commercial and defense aviation. For Orlando, attracting a company with such a forward-looking global vision reinforces its status as a critical hub for the aerospace and defense industries. The move promises to bring high-value jobs and further solidify Central Florida’s reputation as a launchpad for next-generation aviation technologies.

A Strategic Leap Towards a Global MRO Network

The launch of EPC Aerospace’s U.S. headquarters is anchored by the strategic acquisition of Sky Aerospace Engineering LLC. This wasn’t just a purchase; it was a deliberate rebranding and integration effort to establish a strong operational base at a key international airport. The Orlando facility is now poised to become the primary hub for the company’s domestic and international airline maintenance activities. This move provides EPC Aerospace with an immediate, functioning foothold in the competitive U.S. aviation market, allowing it to serve a broad range of clients from day one.

This acquisition is the cornerstone of a much larger vision. EPC Aerospace is embarking on a more than $100 million global expansion aimed at creating a seamless network of MRO centers. The goal is to build an enterprise capable of supporting the complex needs of next-generation aircraft programs across the commercial and defense sectors. By establishing interconnected facilities in the U.S., U.K., and Australia, the company aims to offer standardized, high-quality maintenance and modification services on a global scale, ensuring operational readiness and efficiency for its partners.

The Dual-Focus Operational Model

A key aspect of EPC Aerospace’s strategy is its unique operating model, which is designed to keep its commercial and defense programs independent yet harmonized. This structure is crucial for navigating the distinct regulatory and security requirements of each sector. It allows the company to meet stringent defense contract obligations, including necessary clearances, without compromising the agility and customer-centric approach required for commercial airline maintenance. This dual-focus ensures compliance while fostering scalability and operational flexibility.

The Orlando headquarters will serve as a practical application of this model. It will function as the strategic hub for commercial MRO services while also acting as a staging point for specialized modification and support programs tailored to defense requirements. This integrated approach allows for shared expertise and resources where appropriate, creating a high-value, low-risk operational framework. As CEO Prashan Ambawatta noted, this ensures the company is ready for future defense programs while continuing to deliver premium services to its airline partners.

“By establishing our U.S. headquarters and initial base at MCO through the acquisition of Sky Aerospace, we are taking a decisive step toward building a trusted and innovative global enterprise capable of supporting the next generation of aircraft programs.” – Prashan Ambawatta, CEO of EPC Aerospace LLC

Why Orlando? A Confluence of Talent, Infrastructure, and Vision

The decision to select Orlando was the result of a careful and deliberate process, heavily influenced by the region’s thriving aerospace and defense ecosystem. The Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) played a pivotal role, providing guidance and connecting EPC Aerospace with key public and private stakeholders. This “white glove treatment,” as described by the company’s CEO, showcased the region’s commitment to fostering business growth and partnerships. Orlando’s world-class infrastructure, particularly at MCO, presented a turnkey solution for establishing a major operational hub.

Local and state leaders have voiced strong support for the move, highlighting the synergistic relationship between EPC Aerospace’s goals and the region’s economic strategy. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer emphasized that the investment underscores how the city’s infrastructure and collaborative spirit attract forward-thinking global companies. Similarly, Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings noted that the expansion is a “strong vote of confidence” in the county’s growing aviation and defense industry, which provides an ideal environment for innovation and manufacturing.

Tapping into a World-Class Talent Pipeline

Beyond infrastructure, access to a deep pool of specialized talent was a critical factor in EPC Aerospace’s decision. The proximity to the University of Central Florida (UCF), a top provider of engineers to the U.S. defense and aerospace industry, offers a significant advantage. This direct pipeline to a highly skilled workforce provides a “strong tailwind” for the company’s growth, as noted by State Representative David Smith. The state’s long-term commitment to developing this workforce through investment in career and technical education further enhances the region’s appeal.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) shares this vision of creating a dynamic aerospace hub. GOAA CEO Lance Lyttle stated that MCO’s goal is to foster an environment where businesses like EPC Aerospace can thrive and “shape a standard of aerospace excellence on our airfield.” This alignment of vision between industry, government, and academia creates a powerful ecosystem that not only attracts companies but also provides the necessary support for their long-term success and innovation.

“EPC Aerospace’s decision to establish its U.S. headquarters and operations at Orlando International Airport underscores the strength of our region’s aerospace and defense ecosystem. Their investment builds on Orlando’s global connectivity, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and deep pool of specialized talent.” – Tim Giuliani, President and CEO of Orlando Economic Partnership

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Orlando’s Aerospace Future

The establishment of EPC Aerospace’s U.S. headquarters at Orlando International Airport is a landmark event that signals a new phase of growth for both the company and the region. For EPC Aerospace, it is the critical first step in a well-defined strategy to become a global leader in the MRO sector, serving both commercial and defense aviation with an integrated, multi-national network. The acquisition of Sky Aerospace provides an immediate, robust operational foundation upon which to build this ambitious vision.

For Orlando, this move is a powerful affirmation of its status as a premier destination for the aerospace and defense industries. It highlights the success of a concerted regional effort to build an ecosystem that combines world-class infrastructure, a rich talent pipeline, and a collaborative, pro-business environment. As EPC Aerospace moves toward its full operational launch in early 2026, its presence is set to create high-wage jobs, strengthen the advanced manufacturing sector, and further cement Orlando’s reputation as a global launchpad for the future of aviation.

FAQ

Question: What is EPC Aerospace?
Answer: EPC Aerospace is a disabled veteran-owned and operated global aerospace and defense company that provides advanced maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO), and modification services for both commercial and military aircraft.

Question: Why did EPC Aerospace choose Orlando for its U.S. headquarters?
Answer: Orlando was selected due to its strategic location at Orlando International Airport (MCO), its robust aerospace and defense ecosystem, strong support from local and state partners like the Orlando Economic Partnership, and its access to a skilled workforce, particularly from the University of Central Florida.

Question: What are the company’s expansion plans?
Answer: This is the first step in a more than $100 million global expansion to create a network of advanced MRO centers. The international network will include facilities in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia to serve both commercial and defense clients.

Question: When will the new facility be fully operational?
Answer: The full operational launch of the new facility at Orlando International Airport is planned for early 2026.

Sources

• Orlando Economic Partnership