DPS Opens Largest Aircraft Operations Hangar in Texas at Edinburg Airport

Earlier this week, the Texas Department of Public Safety officially opened its new Aircraft Operations Division hangar in Edinburg, marking a major expansion of aviation capabilities in South Texas. The ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday celebrated the completion of the largest DPS hangar in the state, which is now fully operational and positioned to support both daily missions and large-scale emergency responses.

DPS South Texas leadership was joined at the event by Juan Hinojosa and Terry Canales, who played key roles in securing funding for the project.

Located at the South Texas International Airport, the new 30,000-square-foot facility sits at a strategic hub in the Rio Grande Valley frequently used for military and law enforcement operations. The hangar cost $11.1 million to construct, made possible through $10 million in funding from the Texas Legislature and an additional $1.1 million contribution from the City of Edinburg.

Sen. Hinojosa noted that more than $30 million in state funds have been secured over the past decade for airport improvements, emphasizing the importance of continued investment in infrastructure that supports border security, disaster response, and public safety operations. Rep. Canales echoed that sentiment, highlighting the economic development and regional safety benefits tied to improvements at the airport.

Aircraft Operations Chief Stacy Holland described the hangar as a major milestone for the division, saying it provides the space and capacity needed to meet growing operational demands and support new maintenance initiatives across Texas.

The facility significantly enhances DPS’s ability to rapidly deploy air and ground assets throughout South Texas, especially during hurricanes, floods, or other natural disasters. Its central location also strengthens coordination with local, state, and federal partners during joint operations.

DPS South Texas Region Chief Arturo Dela Garza said the hangar ensures resources are positioned where they are needed most, improving response times and saving lives.

The Edinburg hangar is staffed by seven pilots, five tactical flight officers, two remote pilots, and two aircraft mechanics. It supports two state-owned helicopters, one state-owned airplane, and one federally owned airplane, all used for border security, search and rescue, disaster response, and other critical public safety missions. The former Edinburg hangar is now being utilized by the National Guard in support of ongoing border security operations.