Washington, DC— National aviation organizations today commended Texas Governor Rick Perry for declaring November “Aviation Appreciation Month.” Across Texas, general aviation supports over 56,000 jobs and an economic output of more than $14.6 billion annually.
“We applaud Governor Perry’s recognition of the critical role of general aviation, both in Texas and across the country,” said Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America. “This proclamation highlights the central role that these aircraft have on commerce, the economy, and vital services throughout the country.”
“General aviation is a literal lifeline to communities around the nation, allowing businesses to connect with their resources and customers, and supporting medical care and other important services,” noted Mark Baker, President and CEO of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). “We applaud Governor Perry’s recognition of the significance of this industry, and look forward to working with him.”
“Business aviation is a critical economic driver. Across the nation, many thousands of jobs and businesses rely on general aviation, especially in Texas, which has over 360 general aviation airports across the state,” stated Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). “We thank Governor Perry for this proclamation and for recognizing the value of business aviation.”
“We commend Governor Perry for his leadership in highlighting the importance of general aviation in Texas,” said Jack Pelton, Chairman of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). “Texas in particular has strong ties to aviation and the Governor’s proclamation not only helps to raise awareness about its economic importance, but helps to build enthusiasm as we grow participation in aviation.”
“Our statewide network of public use airports in Texas helps to support businesses, emergency services, and critical services for communities,” said Henry Ogrodzinski, President of the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO). “We thank Governor Perry and Dave Fulton, Division of Aviation Director, for their hard work in giving general aviation its due recognition.”
“General aviation allows businesses, farmers and organizations across Texas to connect with far-off markets, grow and get the resources they need,” said Thomas L. Hendricks, President and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association. “NATA and its member companies commend Governor Perry for highlighting the widespread benefits of this industry.”
“More than many other states, Texas, as home to operations by four of the world’s largest helicopter manufacturers and scores of support businesses, is very aware of the economic impact of the helicopter segment of general aviation,” said HAI President Matt Zuccaro. “In addition, our operators provide services vital to Texas residents, and we look forward to working with the Governor on issues impacting general aviation.”
To view the proclamation, click here.
Formed in 2007, the Alliance for Aviation Across America is a non-profit, non-partisan coalition of more than 6,300 individuals representing businesses, agricultural groups, FBO’s, small airports, elected officials, charitable organizations, and leading business and aviation groups that support the interest of the general aviation community across various public policy issues.
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