OLATHE, Kan. (KCTV) – U.S. Congresswoman Sharice Davids (D-KS) joined officials to mark a $50 million aviation manufacturing expansion in Olathe.

Davids says the visit was part of her “Sharice’s Shift” series. Indra Group USA unveiled a new 118,000-square-foot facility at the Great Plains Commerce Center.

What’s Being Built – and Why It Matters

Davids notes that the Olathe facility will produce next-generation air traffic surveillance radars for the Federal Aviation Administration.

She adds that it will also manufacture more than 20,000 NextComm radios and portable Tactical Air Navigation Systems for the U.S. Air Force.

The Congresswoman says NextComm radios enable clear, secure communication between pilots and air traffic controllers. They also help guide aircraft safely in the air and on the ground.

Davids notes that the radios are based on Indra’s globally used Park Air technology and are new to Kansas production.

The expansion is expected to create more than 200 high-quality jobs over the next 3 years, according to Davids. That would triple the company’s local workforce.

She says the move complements Indra’s existing 40,000-square-foot facility in Overland Park.

The Collision That Framed the Moment

Davids drew a direct line between the facility’s mission and a recent tragedy.

In January 2025, American Airlines Flight 5342 departed Wichita bound for Washington, D.C. It collided midair with a military training helicopter near its destination.

The crash killed 2 pilots, 2 flight attendants and 60 passengers. All 3 helicopter crew members also died.

Aviation safety experts say they found communication missteps played a key role in the crash.

“After the recent plane collision that took Kansans’ lives, it’s impossible to ignore what happens when communication systems fail in the air,” Davids says. “Pilots and controllers need tools they can rely on every second to keep people safe while in the sky. I’m immensely proud to see those systems being built right here in Kansas, creating good-paying jobs while making aviation safer where it matters most.”

In Their Own Words: Jobs, Safety and Kansas Pride

Indra Air Traffic CEO Bill Colligan calls the new facility a regional economic anchor.

“Our new Center of Excellence is a massive economic driver for the region, anchored by a $50 million investment,” he adds.

He says the company plans to significantly grow its Kansas workforce in the coming years.

“In the upcoming years we will triple our local workforce by creating more than 200 new, high-quality jobs right here in Kansas.”

Colligan also credits Davids for helping direct federal aviation funds to the district.

“Rep. Davids’ unwavering support of the NEXCOM radio replacement program has been instrumental in ensuring that a significant portion of the $12.5 B in funds allocated by Congress towards the Brand New Air Traffic Control System are deployed to create jobs in the third district,” he says.

Kansas Deputy Secretary of Business Development Joshua Jefferson says the expansion reinforces the state’s aviation identity.

“Kansas has long been a leader in aviation, and Indra’s expansion in Olathe further strengthens our position as a hub for aerospace innovation and advanced manufacturing,” he notes.

Jefferson adds that the investment carries both economic and safety implications for the nation.

“This investment means high-quality jobs for Kansans, but it also means Kansas workers will help modernize critical air traffic infrastructure that supports the safety and efficiency of America’s skies. We’re proud Indra chose Kansas for its next chapter.”

Davids ties the expansion to Kansas’ long history in aerospace – and its responsibility to the future.

“Kansas has always been a leader in aerospace and advanced manufacturing, and that legacy comes with real responsibility.”

Broader Investment Picture

Davids notes that the Olathe expansion carries significant long-term potential:

• Potential contract value: Up to $244.3 million
• Radio units: Up to 46,000 if all contract options are exercised
• Warranty: 10-year coverage, underscoring confidence in the technology and Kansas workforce

In April 2026, Davids says Indra was awarded a $75.9 million contract by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority.

She adds that the deal covers a Fare Vending Machine Replacement Project, with machines built in Kansas. Davids wrote a letter of support for the company’s application.