Aviation & Aerospace

One of the city’s most well-established industries, aviation has deep roots in Miami-Dade County.

#1

International Air Freight Volume

#2

Leading U.S. airport for international passengers

1,800+

Aviation Companies

88,500+

Local Jobs

$242B

Regional Economic Impact



Introduction

A Global Leader in Aviation & Aerospace

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. MIA handles 82% of all air imports and 76% of exports to and from the Latin American and Caribbean region, highlighting its crucial role for the continent as a whole. The airport’s activities generate an annual economic impact of $252 billion.

MIA’s recent multi-billion-dollar modernization program supports long-term expansion, with infrastructure upgrades designed to accommodate 77 million travelers and 4 million tons of freight by 2040. The airport’s leadership in handling high-value cargo, including pharmaceuticals, has earned it a “Pharma Hub Airport” designation from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), further solidifying its status as a major global aviation and logistics hub.

Where Global Commerce Takes Flight

The aviation industry in Miami-Dade County supports 88,602 jobs, with average annual salaries of around $55,000. As a city wired for global trade, finance, and innovation, Miami continues to leverage its aviation sector as a critical engine of connectivity and growth, linking businesses, talent, and capital. MIA, along with smaller regional airfields, drives substantial economic growth, generating $252 billion in annual economic impact.

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 more than 1,800 aviation businesses produce an annual economic return of $252 billion. This continues to place Miami at the vanguard of aviation sustainability.

International Connectivity and Freight Leadership

Miami International Airport (MIA) ranks as the busiest U.S. airport for international freight and among the top 5 globally, and serves 90 airlines 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

Madeline Mesa 

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.

Connect to Madeline

Full bio

Top Organizations

Miami is home to a variety of leading aviation companies servicing airlines from all parts of the world.