Why Querétaro? The Development of an Aeronautical Manufacturing Cluster in Central Mexico

In recent years, an aeronautical manufacturing cluster has emerged in Querétaro state, Mexico. In 2013, the aeronautical industry in Querétaro state represented 10% of the state's gross product and employed more than 5,000 people, and further private investments of over US$160 million related to the aeronautical industry were expected (Secretaría de Desarrollo Sustentable, 2014). This article investigates the causes for the development of such a cluster, drawing upon Brenner and Mühlig's (2013) study of 159 industrial clusters, and identifies both the key factors in the development of the cluster and what makes Querétaro attractive to foreign direct investment. The findings indicate areas for further research for potential cluster development in other regions of Mexico. The article concludes with the challenge facing the aeronautical cluster in Querétaro if it is to create a sustainable competitive advantage and compete on a global scale. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.