Fort Worth, Texas has been officially designated as the “aviation and defense capital” of Texas by Governor Greg Abbott. The city’s aviation industry, which includes major companies such as American Airlines, Lockheed Martin Corp., and Bell, was recognized for its contributions to aerospace innovation and national security.
The designation was made possible by a House Concurrent Resolution 142 signed on June 17 by the governor, sponsored by former state Senator Kelly Hancock. Fort Worth has been at the heart of America’s aviation and defense story for over a century, from building bombers in World War II to leading today’s aerospace innovation.
“This resolution honors our community’s unique contributions to national security, economic growth, and Texas history,” said Hancock. “It provides another great way to attract new investment and strengthen Fort Worth’s position as a global leader in aerospace and defense.”
The city’s aviation airports, including Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Meacham, Spinks, and Perot Field at Fort Worth Alliance Airport, are expected to benefit from the designation. The city plans to invest $6 million in runway infrastructure improvements at Meacham, which generates an estimated $165 million in economic activity and 900 jobs across North Texas.
The new title also recognizes Fort Worth’s military roots, dating back to its founding as a U.S. Army outpost in 1849. “This designation just really cements that,” said Robert Allen, president and CEO of the Fort Worth Economic Partnership.
Source: https://fortworthreport.org/2025/07/01/fort-worth-is-states-new-aviation-defense-capital-will-that-help-with-economic-development