Sterling Helicopter Selects Bluffton Location, Creating 15 New Jobs
BLUFFTON, S.C. — Sterling Helicopter, which offers full aerospace engineering services and capabilities for Part 23, 25, 27, and 29 aircraft, has selected Bluffton for its newest operations location, creating 15 new jobs over the next five years. The company will operate from 65 Innovation Drive in Buckwalter Place.
The new location represents Sterling Helicopter’s continued growth and commitment to serving customers as it establishes operations in the Lowcountry. The project will bring new aerospace employment opportunities to the community and further strengthen Beaufort County’s growing business base, namely in the aerospace sector.
To support the project, Beaufort County Economic Development Corporation (BCEDC) provided a $7,500 grant to assist with the upfit of the company’s new facility. The Town of Bluffton also supported the investment through $14,500 in reimbursable grants for business license fees and Beaufort-Jasper Water & Sewer Authority fees.
“We are excited to expand our presence into Bluffton and become part of such a vibrant and growing community. Opening our doors at this new location represents an important milestone in our company’s growth and shows our continued commitment to increase aviation safety and value to our customer base. We are committed to building strong local relationships and supporting the residents and businesses that make Bluffton such a special place.” — Edward Allen, Director of Engineering for Sterling Helicopter
“The Bluffton community is delighted to welcome Sterling Helicopter to the greater Bluffton business community. Companies like Sterling Helicopter bring high-quality jobs, investment and specialized expertise that strengthen our local economy and expand opportunities for residents. We are proud to support its growth through the Town’s Economic Development Incentive Program and look forward to the positive impact they will have on our community. The creation of approximately 15 new jobs is a meaningful investment in Bluffton’s future and another example of why businesses continue to choose our region for growth and innovation. On behalf of the Town Council and our residents, we wish them continued success and we are proud they have chosen Bluffton as part of its future.” — Larry Toomer, Mayor, Town of Bluffton
“Sterling Helicopter’s investment is another example of the type of business growth that strengthens our local economy and creates quality job opportunities for Beaufort County residents. We are proud to support their project and welcome them to the Buckwalter Place business community.” — John O’Toole, Executive Director, Beaufort County Economic Development Corporation
The project reflects the collaborative efforts of local partners working together to support investment, job creation, and long-term economic growth throughout Beaufort County.
Individuals interested in employment opportunities with Sterling Helicopter are encouraged to contact Amanda Allen, aallen@sterlinghelicopter.com, for information about available positions.
About Sterling Helicopter
Sterling Helicopter provides turnkey FAA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) solutions for Part 23, 25, 27, and 29 aircraft. The company also holds FAA Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) and operates an FAA-certified Repair Station serving customers throughout the United States, Europe, the Cayman Islands, and other international markets.
In addition to FAA certifications, Sterling works with Civil Aviation Authorities worldwide—including those in Europe, Canada, Brazil, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Peru—to validate and support certified aircraft modifications. These capabilities enable Sterling’s solutions to be installed globally, enhancing aviation safety and improving the passenger experience.
Sterling’s operations include its headquarters in Croydon, Pennsylvania; its Bluffton, South Carolina facility, which supports engineering and FAA-PMA manufacturing; and the Penn’s Landing Heliport in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, which operates as a Fixed Base Operator (FBO). The Croydon FAA Repair Station features more than 30,000 square feet of hangar space and includes authorized service centers for Bell, Airbus, Leonardo, and Sikorsky helicopters, as well as a Safran Certified Maintenance Center (CMC) for helicopter engines.
Since expanding into aerospace engineering services in 2019 and adding FAA-PMA manufacturing capabilities in 2021, Sterling Helicopter has continued to grow its technical expertise, service offerings, and global customer support network.
About the Town of Bluffton
The Town of Bluffton, known as the “Heart of the Lowcountry,” encompasses 54 square miles and is one of South Carolina’s fastest-growing communities, with an estimated 2024 population of approximately 35,000 residents. Bluffton is the 15th largest municipality in South Carolina by population and the 5th largest by land area, having grown by more than 1,400% since 2000. The community is characterized by a high quality of life, strong household incomes, and a blend of historic charm and modern amenities.
About Beaufort County Economic Development Corporation
Beaufort County Economic Development Corporation (BCEDC) works to attract new investment, support existing industry, and create opportunities that strengthen the local economy and improve quality of life throughout Beaufort County. Through strategic partnerships and business-focused initiatives, BCEDC helps companies start, grow, and thrive in Beaufort County, South Carolina.
Media Contact:
Kelli Brunson, Senior Project Manager
Beaufort County Economic Development Corporation
info@thrivebeaufort.org | 843-226-3462 ext. 3
