Virgin Galactic Holdings announced on July 14 that it had signed a long-term lease for a new manufacturing facility of “its next-generation Delta class spaceships” in Mesa, near the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport.

According to a release by Virgin Galactic, the facility will aim to produce up to six spaceships a year and will “bring hundreds of highly skilled aerospace engineering and manufacturing jobs” to the Phoenix-Mesa area.

“Our spaceship final assembly factory is key to accelerating the production of our Delta fleet, enabling a rapid increase in flight capacity that will drive our revenue growth.” Virgin Galactic CEO Michael Colglazier said in the release. “We’re thrilled to expand into the greater Phoenix area which is home to outstanding aerospace talent – and we look forward to growing our team and fleet at our new facility.”

Mesa Mayor John Giles took to Twitter to celebrate the news, posting July 14 that "World-class, industry-leading businesses continue to gravitate to the @CityofMesa. Welcome to our city, @VirginGalactic! You’ll be right at home with innovative companies choosing to locate at @GatewayAirport."

Mesa City Councilmember Kevin Thompson also supported the move.

“It’s always good when you have a diversified economy and bring in new economic tools.” said Thompson, who represents the area around Gateway airport, in a story by AZCentral.“It’s not only good for Mesa, it's good for the region as a whole.” 

Governor Doug Ducey tweeted, "Arizona is a launchpad for innovation. @virgingalactic joins an aerospace hub that continually sets the bar for exploration, defense and commercial travel."

According to Virgin’s release, the Delta class ships are designed to fly weekly, and Virginia Galactic has set a goal of of 400 flights per year from Spaceport America. 

"3…2…1…ready for launch! Welcome aboard, @virgingalactic,” Ducey tweeted. “Another huge manufacturing win for Arizona, creating hundreds of jobs. The new facility in Mesa will be the final assembly point for commercial spaceships."