Timberline Helicopters is planning a major expansion in Sandpoint, Idaho, that’s expected to inject millions into the local economy and create 24 new direct, well-paying jobs.
The company specializes in heavy-lift helicopter services, aerial firefighting, and external load operations, with a fleet that includes Sikorsky UH-60A Black Hawk and Kaman K-Max rotorcraft.
“We are thrilled to continue growing in Sandpoint,” said Tyson Davis, president of Timberline Helicopters, in a statement.
“This investment will allow us to expand our capabilities, create new opportunities for skilled professionals, and contribute to the community’s economic vitality.”
Timberline has received a performance-based incentive from the Idaho Economic Advisory Council (EAC) for the expansion, though terms of the deal were not disclosed.
The expansion is seen as a “crucial investment in the region’s economic future, fostering job growth and industrial diversification beyond the tourism sector,” the city said in a release.
Timberline intends to use this opportunity to increase its fleet, enhance maintenance capabilities, and develop new aviation technologies, the city said.
“This is exactly the kind of high-impact economic development Sandpoint needs,” said Jeremy Grimm, mayor of Sandpoint.
“The expansion of Timberline Helicopters will bring quality, well-paying jobs to our community, reinforcing my administration’s commitment to moving Sandpoint toward a more sustainable and diverse economy.”
Half of the 24 newly created jobs will be for airframe and power plant (A&P) mechanics, with salaries that can exceed $80,000 per year. The city projects the expansion will create more than 20 additional indirect jobs in the region, and another 12 induced jobs in aerospace.
Annual labor income from these new positions is expected to exceed US$3.7 million, with a total state-wide gross domestic product (GDP) impact of $6.3 million a year, the city said.
The company plans to invest over $13 million into the local community, with more than $12 million dedicated to “real property improvements,” the city said.
“This project exemplifies the State’s dedication to fostering business growth and innovation,” said Tom Kealey, director of the Idaho Department of Commerce.
“Timberline Helicopters’ expansion not only creates high-paying jobs but also reinforces Idaho’s reputation as an emerging leader in this segment of the aerospace industry.”
In addition to Timberline, Sandpoint’s aerospace community includes Tamarack Aerospace, known for its winglet technology; and a Daher fixed-wing manufacturing and final assembly facility.
“This expansion is a clear example of the kind of economic development we need … and strengthens our regional economy for years to come,” said Grimm.
