The future of the Dassault site at Wilmington-New Castle Airport is in doubt, WDEL reported Friday.
The news radio station reported that officials of the French aerospace company are poised to file a WARN layoff/plant closing notice but noted that discussions are ongoing with the United Auto Workers.
No WARN notice had been posted on the state’s website. The notice is required for layoffs or site closings employing more than 50 people.
So far this year, three WARN notices have been filed – one related to a new dining vendor at Delaware State University, layoffs from the merger of Delaware State and Wesley College, and the closing of the IKO roofing [lant in Edgemoor.
A Dassault spokesperson was sent a request for comment.
The French aerospace company services and refits corporate jets. Dassault is one of the largest employers at the airport.
Dassault is a rival to U.S. companies with its fighter jets. Its offerings also include the Falcon corporate jet.
Dassault is a long-time tenant of the airport managed by the Delaware River and Bay Authority.
In keeping with the sometimes secretive world of aircraft used by companies and wealthy families, Dassault has kept a low profile in Delaware.
Another company that does work on larger aircraft is ALOFT AeroArchitects, formerly PATS Aircraft Systems in Georgetown, Sussex County. ALOFT refits larger corporate jets with interior and avionics and by adding fuel tanks that extend their range.
