The city of Alpena has proclaimed September General Aviation Appreciation Month, noting that the continued vitality of general aviation and the local airport “have an immense economic impact” on the area.

The proclamation also points out that general aviation not only supports the economy but also “improves overall quality of life by supporting emergency medical and healthcare services, law enforcement, fire-fighting and disaster relief, and investments in sustainable fuels and technologies.”

Mayor Matt Waligora also called general aviation “a vital strategic asset to the City of Alpena.”

The proclamation says general aviation airports in Michigan support over $5.2 billion in total economic output.