Southern Cross Aviation, a leading wholesale aviation parts distributor, announced today its expansion to Mesa, Arizona, to support the thriving general aviation, commercial aviation, and defense aerospace industries in Greater Phoenix. This strategic expansion marks the company’s third location, complementing its headquarters and distribution center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and its distribution facility in Anchorage, Alaska.
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In Mesa, Southern Cross Aviation will cater to a diverse range of aviation operators, including regional airlines, flight schools, MRO shops, law enforcement agencies, medical evacuation operators, charter companies, aircraft owners, and more. The new facility will be strategically positioned to serve 10 international and regional airports in Maricopa County, including Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
“Aviation is part of Mesa’s identity and I’m thrilled to welcome Southern Cross Aviation to our city,” said Mesa Mayor John Giles. “Their presence will not only bring new jobs and economic opportunities but also enhance Mesa’s reputation as a hub for innovation and growth in the aviation and aerospace sectors.”
The presence of reputable aviation companies in and around Mesa was a significant factor for Southern Cross Aviation. Its new facility on Pecos and Sossaman roads, located just off Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, positions the company ideally to serve clients across Greater Phoenix.
“This strategic expansion will allow Southern Cross Aviation to deliver efficient solutions to its critical operators in this booming aerospace region. Our mission has always been to provide the highest level of customer service to our clientele, and we believe this expansion will enable us to uphold that mission in the region,” said Ricardo Carvalho, Co-Founder & Director of Sales. “We are thrilled to join the Greater Phoenix aviation community and look forward to contributing to its growth and success.”
The company will collaborate with educational institutions to bolster training programs at a crucial time in which there is an increasing need for pilots and a corresponding increase in students pursuing pilot certificates. The Federal Aviation Administration reported a 24% increase in new pilot licenses between 2022 and 2023, with the state serving as a national leader with 24 training centers in Greater Phoenix and nearly 11,000 students throughout Arizona in 2023. Southern Cross Aviation will play a key role in distributing parts to these institutions, addressing the growing need for more pilots.
“Southern Cross Aviation’s Mesa distribution hub and focus on workforce development will provide a substantial impact to the regional aviation ecosystem,” said Greater Phoenix Economic Council President & CEO Chris Camacho. “Greater Phoenix’s legacy of aviation and aerospace and defense will serve as a strong foundation for the company to continue its growth trajectory.”
The company is investing over $10 million in its new 23,599 square-foot facility dedicated to stocking and distributing aviation parts and components. This investment includes building improvements, warehouse fixtures, machinery, and inventory.
The company, which signed its lease in November 2023, is now fully operational in Mesa. Southern Cross Aviation anticipates future growth and job creation in Maricopa County.
