Florida
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According to the 2019 Statewide Aviation Economic Impact Study, general aviation airports in Florida contribute more than $18.4 billion to the state’s economy annually.
Aviation by the Numbers
According to the Florida Department of Transportation, there are 110 public-use general aviation airports in Florida. The FAA reports that these airports serve 75,551 pilots and 20,007 registered aircraft.
Number of Jobs
According to the 2019 Statewide Aviation Economic Impact Study, general aviation airports support over 108,000 jobs and an annual payroll of more than $5.4 billion.
Economic Impact
According to the same study, general aviation airports in Florida contribute more than $18.4 billion to the state’s economy annually.
According to the Florida Department of Transportation, Florida is home to 609 repair stations and 289 public- and private-use heliports. According to FAA data, Florida has 99 FAA-approved pilot schools, 26,531 student pilots and 13,299 flight instructors. The state has 149 fixed-base operators according to the AC-U-KWIK database.
According to the Florida Department of Transportation and the University Aviation Association, flight departments in Florida include the Broward College Aviation Institute in Pembroke Pines, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Everglades University in Boca Raton, Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, Florida Memorial University in Miami Gardens, Florida State College in Jacksonville, Lynn University in Boca Raton, Miami Dade College in Homestead, Pasco-Hernando State College in New Port Richey, Polk State College in Winter Haven, Southeastern University in Lakeland, Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, University of Miami in Coral Gables, and University of South Florida in Tampa.
Joseph Catrambone, CEO, Stuart Martin County Chamber of Commerce
"The fact is that general aviation and local airports are a life-saving resource in times of natural disaster, and many other times. In the early months of the pandemic, when some of the most basic necessities were hard to come by, volunteer general aviation pilots helped to move personal protection equipment, ventilators, and other critical medical supplies where it was needed in short notice. Communities throughout Florida rely on general aviation for critical services such as air ambulance, search and rescue, traffic monitoring, firefighting, and law enforcement."
John R. Wright, President, Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce
"Punta Gorda Airport, with its historical roots as a World War II training facility, plays a pivotal role in the economic and social vitality of Charlotte County. As an engine that supports an economic impact exceeding $1.7 billion, PGD is more than an airport—it's a catalyst for regional growth, enhancing our community’s access to national and global networks. Its transformation into a bustling center for both general and commercial aviation reflects our community's dynamic growth and our commitment to fostering a thriving economy. PGD stands as a testament to our region's resilience, growth, and the expanding horizons of our collective future."
Robert Goltz, President & CEO, Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce
"As president and CEO of the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, I am pleased to highlight the vital role Page Field plays within our community. Home to 21 diverse local businesses, Page Field contributes significantly to our local business and economic landscape, supporting a remarkable $385 million in economic activity annually. The recent addition of a new multi-use hanger demonstrates our community’s commitment to meeting growing demand and enhancing service capabilities for our residents and businesses. Page Field honors its rich history as a former World War II Army Air Field and continues to serve as a cornerstone of aviation excellence and economic development in Fort Myers."