Aviation
One of the city’s most well-established industries, aviation has deep roots in Miami-Dade County.
#1
International Air Freight Volume
#4
Best International Large Airport in the US for Passengers
1,800+
Aviation Companies
88,500+
Local Jobs
$26B
Regional Economic Impact
Introduction
A Global Leader in Aviation
Miami-Dade County boasts a rich aviation history dating back to 1911 when the Wright Brothers first performed aerial stunts in the area. Today, Miami International Airport (MIA) is one of the world’s leading aviation hubs, serving as a gateway for passengers and freight across the Americas. With 96 air carriers serving approximately 150 destinations, MIA offers more flights to Latin America and the Caribbean than any other U.S. airport.
The region is also a critical player in international trade, ranking as the busiest airport in the U.S. for international freight and the 6th largest globally. Highlighting its crucial role for the continent as a whole, MIA handles 82% of all air imports and 76% of exports to and from the Latin American and Caribbean region, with an annual economic impact of $26 billion.
MIA’s recent $7 billion investment plan ensures its growth, with expansions set to accommodate 77 million travelers and 4 million tons of freight by 2040. The airport’s leadership in handling high-value goods, including pharmaceuticals, has earned it a “Pharma Hub Airport” designation by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), further solidifying its status as a global leader in aviation innovation and economic impact.
An Aviation Powerhouse
The aviation industry in Miami-Dade County supports 88,602 jobs, with average annual salaries around $55,000. MIA, along with smaller regional airfields, drives substantial economic growth, generating $26 billion in annual economic return.
Aviation Innovation and Technology
Miami’s aviation sector is at the forefront of adopting cutting-edge technology, from AI-driven logistics to advanced aircraft maintenance. The city’s robust Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services benefit from emerging innovative projects like electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Miami-Dade’s 2,128 aviation businesses, producing an annual economic return of $26 billion, continue to place Miami at the vanguard of aviation sustainability.
International Connectivity and Freight Leadership
Miami International Airport (MIA) ranks as the 6th largest international freight airport globally and serves 90 air carriers connecting approximately 150 destinations. MIA leads in national imports of fruit and vegetables (65% market share), flowers (91%), and seafood (55%). The airport handles 82% of all air imports and 76% of exports from Latin America and the Caribbean, further cementing its dominance in international freight.
Connect with our Industry Expert
Director, International Economic Development
Madeline Mesa, International Economic Development Director for Miami-Dade Beacon Council serving in this role since October 2019. Responsible for promoting Miami as a global business destination focused on increasing quality jobs and investments based on business growth, retention, and expansion efforts.
Top Organizations
Miami is home to a variety of leading aviation companies servicing airlines from all parts of the world.
Aviation Council
The Aviation Advisory Council is designed as targeted private convenings of local experts that advise and support Beacon Council staff on the implementation of high-impact economic development initiatives
Peter Cerdá
Regional Vice President at International Air Transport Association (IATA)
Chair of Aviation Industry Council
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Title
The Aviation Advisory Council is designed as targeted private convenings of local experts that advise and support Beacon Council staff on the implementation of high-impact economic development initiatives