February 16, 2012 By: Charles Spence
WASHINGTON, D.C. – General aviation is a vital part of our economy and national infrastructure, and we are concerned about the repercussions of your statements about it. That, in essence was what the mayors of 100 communities in 48 states recently sent in a letter to President Obama. The letter was coordinated by the Alliance for Aviation Across America.
The letter was sent just days after Obama released his budget calling for a $100 each-flight fee on certain general aviation users.
More than 1.2 million jobs and over $150 billion in economic impact annually are supported by general aviation, the mayors stated to Obama and his advisors. The mayors pointed out to the President that GA and the airports it utilizes are literal lifelines to their communities. They provide business growth, law enforcement, disaster relief, medical care and other services.
It is a mistaken belief that general aviation is a luxury for fat cats, the mayors informed Obama. “We can tell you first hand that these aircraft are a critical tool and resource for businesses in our communities; businesses that keep our communities afloat and help workers to be able to continue to put food on their tables for their families.”
The mayors told Obama that “we need to do everything we can to support jobs and stimulate the economy, not crippling an industry which represents a lifeline such as ours around the nation.”
http://www.generalaviationnews.com/2012/02/16/100-mayors-denounce-obamas-attacks-on-ga/
Source: GENERAL AVIATION NEWS
Date: 2012-02-16