Otto Aviation announced June 18 at the Paris Air Show that it selected Advanced Integration Technology as the primary provider of tooling and automated systems for production of its Phantom 3500 aircraft.
Otto and AIT are both based in Texas.
In a news release, Otto said the collaboration marks a milestone as it develops efficient systems and processes needed to build the Phantom at high volume, especially as demand grows.
“AIT’s systems and expertise give us the precision, reliability and scalability we need to bring the Phantom 3500 to life,” Steven Afalla, Otto Aviation’s director of manufacturing, said in the release.
“Their world-class tooling and automation solutions will help ensure we create repeatable, high-quality production systems as we transition from development to production ramp-up.”
The release also says the partnership could support Otto’s long-term growth, including future aircraft developments.
Otto says the Phantom is designed to minimize drag and maximize fuel efficiency. The jet will operate on 60% less fuel than comparable aircraft while exceeding them in range. It is expected to enter the market in 2030.
The Phantom is in the super-midsize category, which typically carries eight to 10 passengers.
Otto announced June 16 it will establish a manufacturing and production facility at Cecil Airport in West Jacksonville.
The company plans to begin operations in Hangar 825 at Cecil, originally built by the U.S. Navy for aircraft fleet operations, before developing its primary manufacturing plant on-site to produce the Phantom.
On June 10, Council approved a $20 million incentive package for the aircraft company. The 18-0 vote constituted final action on a 20-year, 75% Recapture Enhanced Value Grant for Otto.
On May 19, the Jacksonville Aviation Authority board approved a $34.9 million package of incentives for Otto that include $5.23 million in rent abatements and a $22.5 million obligation by JAA to extend a taxiway at the property where Otto plans to build its facility.
A REV grant is a refund on added tax revenue generated by a new development.
Production of flight test vehicles is scheduled to begin in 2026, according to the release.
Otto’s headquarters will also relocate to Jacksonville from Texas. The company has said it plans to employ 1,200 people at an average annual salary of $90,000.