On February 17, 2026, the aviation and aerospace industry in Washington state continues to be a driver of innovation and economic growth. With a long history of leadership in the sector, Washington is home to some of the biggest names in aviation and aerospace, including Boeing and Blue Origin.One of the most exciting developments in the industry is the partnership between Boeing and NASA to develop the next generation of space exploration vehicles. Boeing, based in Everett, Washington, has been selected by NASA to build the Space Launch System (SLS), a powerful rocket that will be used for future missions to the moon and beyond. This partnership signifies a significant milestone for the state's aerospace industry and showcases Washington's expertise in space exploration technology.In addition to Boeing's endeavors in space exploration, Blue Origin, founded by Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos, has been making strides in the commercial spaceflight industry. The company's headquarters in Kent, Washington, has been busy developing reusable rocket technology and has recently announced plans to launch commercial spaceflights for paying customers. Blue Origin's advancements in space tourism have captured the attention of the world and have solidified the company's position as a leader in the industry.Furthermore, other Washington-based aerospace companies are also making significant contributions to the industry. AeroTEC, a leading aerospace engineering and testing firm in Seattle, has been working on cutting-edge technologies for electric aircraft. With a growing demand for sustainable aviation solutions, AeroTEC's research and development efforts are crucial for the future of the industry.Overall, the aviation and aerospace industry in Washington state is thriving, with companies pushing the boundaries of innovation and technology. As these developments continue to unfold, Washington solidifies its position as a global hub for aviation and aerospace excellence.