Parkinson, Bombardier to make announcement regarding Learjet jobs in Wichita

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July 22--Gov. Mark Parkinson and Bombardier Aerospace officials have agreed to collaborate on securing the future of the company's Learjet site in Wichita, according to the governor's office.

Parkinson met this week with Bombardier Aerospace president and chief operations officer Guy Hachey at the Farnborough International Airshow in Farnborough, England.

Details will be released at a public event scheduled for July 30 in Wichita, the governor's office said.

"Continuing to find opportunities to bring jobs and revitalize the Kansas economy remains one of my top priorities as we emerge out of the recession, Parkinson said in a statement.

Wichita and the entire aviation industry have faced enormous challenges over the past two years.

"We must seize opportunities to ensure this important sector of our economy once again prospers. I am delighted to work with Bombardier to secure the future site of Learjet, keep these jobs for Wichita, and further our economic recovery in Kansas," Parkinson said.

Parkinson is in Farnborough promoting the Kansas aviation industry and encouraging investment in Kansas by global aviation companies.

On Wednesday, he met with Hawker Beechcraft CEO Bill Boisture.

The meeting followed news that the company is considering moving work out of Wichita and putting a facility in Louisiana or Mississippi.

Reach Molly McMillin at 316-269-6708 or mmcmillin@wichitaeagle.com.