Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen joined the movement in supporting general aviation on Wednesday, unveiling a proclamation declaring April 2010 “General Aviation Appreciation Month”. Bredesen received support from industry leaders including the Alliance for Aviation Across America’s (AAAA) Matthew Hager, Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner Gerald Nicely, Tennessee Aeronautics Commissioners Chairman Ron Cooper, Fred Culbreath, Fred Dettwiller, Belinda Anderson, Larry Mullins, Aeronautics Director Bob Woods, Dick Doubrava on behalf of the National Business Aviation Association, and Bob Minter of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association during the signing.

The general aviation proclamation symbolizes Tennessee’s recognition of the significant impact general aviation has on the state. General aviation accounts for $2.57 billion in economic activity in the state and employs 51,800 people, producing a payroll of $2.3 billion.

General aviation leaders were extremely pleased with Governor Breseden’s support of the general aviation industry.

“We are so pleased to have Governor Bredesen’s support. The general aviation industry provides a truly unique lifeline for rural communities by providing access to emergency medical treatment, quick business links and agricultural services for farmers,” said Alliance for Aviation Across America Executive Director, Selena Shilad.

Read the full proclamation here and read AAAA’s press release here.