Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, is expanding its West Des Moines, Iowa, manufacturing facility by 14,000 square feet through a multi-million-dollar investment aimed at increasing production capacity and meeting customer demand. The facility manufactures fuel distribution systems, including original equipment components and spare parts, and provides maintenance, repair and overhaul services. Its products are used across commercial and military aircraft platforms.
The West Des Moines site currently ships more than 25,000 engine nozzles each month and operates as an FAA-certified Part 145 repair station specialising in engine nozzle systems and powerplant accessories. “The investment at our West Des Moines site demonstrates our commitment to advancing commercial and military aviation through our innovative fuel-distribution technology,” said James Bagg, vice president and general manager of Engine Control Systems at Collins Aerospace. “This expansion helps us enhance delivery performance, improve manufacturing capabilities and add jobs to meet growing customer demand.”
The facility currently employs approximately 300 full-time employees. Collins plans to add positions by the end of 2026, with further hiring expected in 2027 as production requirements increase. Construction on the latest expansion is scheduled to begin later this month, with completion expected by the middle of 2027. The additional space will increase manufacturing capacity at a site that has developed expertise in advanced fuel nozzle production.
The expansion follows a $14 million investment completed by Collins in 2023 at its Delavan Drive facility in West Des Moines. That project added 9,000 square feet and increased the site’s additive manufacturing capacity with metal 3D printers. The additive manufacturing investment has supported faster production, shorter lead times and the development of lighter aerospace components. The West Des Moines operation has since received National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program certification for additive manufacturing.
Collins said the latest investment will support production programs serving both commercial and military aviation customers. The company expects the additional capacity and workforce to support demand for fuel distribution and engine nozzle systems over the coming years.
Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, develops aerospace and defence systems covering avionics, aircraft interiors, aerostructures, engine components, mission systems, and power and control systems. Its products and services support aircraft manufacturers, airlines, defence customers and other operators worldwide.
RTX employs more than 180,000 people globally and reported 2025 sales of more than $88 billion. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the company operates across aviation, defence and advanced technology sectors. The West Des Moines expansion adds to Collins Aerospace’s manufacturing investments in Iowa and strengthens the site’s capacity to supply engine and fuel-system components to the aerospace industry.
