GE Aerospace is investing $48 million in its Asheville facility to increase production of Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) for jet engines. The investment aims to modernize the plant and create new opportunities in advanced manufacturing in the Asheville area.
The investment is part of a broader $160 million commitment across North Carolina sites announced in early 2026. The funding will support equipment upgrades for CMC parts and advanced metal shaping. The Asheville plant, located in Buncombe County, was originally established as GE's first mass-production site for CMCs in 2014.
Details of the Investment
The Asheville investment will fund additional equipment for producing CMC engine parts and new inspection tools, as well as precision machines for metal components, according to the company. These upgrades are intended to modernize the plant, which is located in Sweeten Creek Industrial Park. The plant produces CMCs and nickel alloy parts for engines like CFM LEAP, which powers a large percentage of commercial aircraft.
CMCs offer heat resistance and lightness, enabling fuel savings per jet engine. The upgrades address a significant order backlog driven by airline modernization and military needs, with engine orders extending into the 2030s, according to the company. Company leadership has highlighted the importance of these North Carolina investments during visits to local facilities.
Broader Impact
The investment in the Asheville facility is part of a larger trend of GE Aerospace expanding its manufacturing capabilities in North Carolina. Other locations receiving investments include Durham, Wilmington, and West Jefferson. These investments are intended to ramp up capacity for jet engines amid increased demand.
Previous expansions in the Asheville area have generated economic impact, including labor income and tax revenue. The company has partnered with NC Commerce, local governments, and colleges in the past. Specific details about potential job creation or workforce development opportunities in Asheville were not provided in the announcement.
The investment in GE Aerospace's Asheville facility signals a commitment to advanced manufacturing in Western North Carolina. The modernization of the plant is expected to enhance production capabilities and support the growing demand for jet engines.