Florida
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According to the 2022 Florida Aviation Economic Impact Study, general aviation airports in Florida contribute more than $27.4 billion to the state's economy annually.
Aviation By the Numbers
According to FAA data, Florida is home to 100 public-use general aviation airports, 97,112 pilots, and 21,738 registered aircraft.
Number of Jobs
According to the 2022 Florida Aviation Economic Impact Study, general aviation airports support more than 156,000 jobs and an annual payroll of more than $7.9 billion.
Economic Impact
According to the same study, general aviation airports in Florida contribute more than $27.4 billion to the state's economy annually.
According to FAA data, Florida is home to 641 repair stations, 109 FAA-approved pilot schools, 38,122 student pilots, and 16,904 flight instructors.
The state has 153 fixed-base operators according to the AC-U-KWIK database.
According to the University Aviation Association, there are 17 flight departments in Florida including Florida Memorial University in Miami Gardens, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, Florida State College at Jacksonville in Jacksonville, Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, Lynn University in Boca Raton, Miami Dade College in Miami, and Pasco Hernando State College in New Port Richey.
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."