National aviation organizations commended Missouri Governor Jay Nixon for declaring April “General Aviation Appreciation Month.” The proclamation highlights the vital role general aviation plays in supporting the communities throughout Missouri and the country. In Missouri, the general aviation industry contributes an estimated $2.4 billion into the economy every year and supports 16,000 jobs.
Alliance for Aviation Across America Executive Director Selena Shilad thanks Governor Nixon for recognizing the role of general aviation throughout Missouri, as community airports across the state support commerce, local business, emergency services and public safety.”
Especially in rural communities, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association President and C-E-O Craig Fuller general aviation plays a vital role in linking residents to essential services, such as law enforcement, medical care, disaster relief, fire fighting and nearly every aspect of public safety.
Businesses utilize general aviation as a tool to increase productivity and reach markets that would otherwise be inaccessible according to National Business Aviation Association President and C-E-O Ed Bolen.
With 125 general aviation airports National Association of State Aviation Officials President Henry Ogrodzinski says Missouri’s aviation infrastructure serves to connect residents with the rest of the country, while providing access to a host of critical services.
Helicopter Association International President Matt Zuccaro says helicopters play an essential role in ensuring public safety, and are ideal for business use. Whether it is lifting materials to construction sites, carrying out emergency services, or maintaining power lines from the air, Zuccaro says helicopters and general aviation are an important resource.