FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 19, 2013
Contacts:
Devin Osting (AAAA): (202) 223-9523
Dan Hubbard (NBAA): (202) 783-9360
Steve Hedges (AOPA): (301) 695-2159
Chris Dancy (HAI): (703) 683-4646
Jim Coon (NATA): (703) 845-9000
Kim Stevens (NASAO): (703) 417-1884
National Aviation Organizations Recognize Idaho Governor for Declaring June ‘General Aviation Appreciation Month’
Washington, DC – Today, national aviation organizations commended Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter for declaring June “General Aviation Appreciation Month.” In Idaho, general aviation and local airports generate $426 million in economic impact annually and support over 4,000 jobs.
Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America (AAAA) stated, “We thank Governor Otter for once again issuing this proclamation and highlighting the critical role of general aviation in the state of Idaho. We would also like to thank the Idaho Aviation Association for its support during this process.”
“Idaho’s network of 126 airports is a tremendous asset for businesses, law enforcement, farms and numerous organizations across the state,” stated Craig L. Fuller, President of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). “These airports and general aviation allow businesses, farms and citizens to more effectively reach far off markets, customers, and critical services. We commend Governor Otter and look forward to working with him to promote the benefits of general aviation.”
“We would like to thank Governor Otter for recognizing the impact of general aviation, including business aviation, in Idaho,” stated Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). “Across the country, business aviation represents an enormous economic impact and helps to support thousands of jobs, especially in rural communities. This proclamation highlights the value and impact of this vital industry.”
Henry Ogrodzinski, President of the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) said, “Across the country, local airports serve as an integral part of our communities, supporting millions of jobs and connecting communities to essential services. We welcome Governor Otter’s proclamation and look forward to continuing to work with him and Idaho Division of Aeronautics Administrator Mike Pape.”
“The general aviation industry throughout Idaho supports many industries from law enforcement to fire-fighting, medical care, flight training and disaster relief,” said Thomas L. Hendricks, President and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association (NATA). “NATA joins its counterparts in commending Governor Otter for his recognition of the importance of general aviation’s contributions to communities and businesses across the state.”
“With their unique capabilities, helicopters provide life-saving services, support medical transport, agriculture and logging, along with many other important functions on behalf of the greater good,” said Matthew Zuccaro, President of Helicopter Association International (HAI). “We welcome Governor Otter’s proclamation and thank him for the opportunity to spotlight the economic and operational benefits of helicopters and general aviation to communities across Idaho.”
To view this proclamation, click here.
Formed in 2007, the Alliance for Aviation Across America is a non-profit, non-partisan coalition of over 6,000 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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