Economic Impact of General Aviation in

Michigan


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According to the 2017 Michigan Aviation System Plan, general aviation airports in Michigan support over $5.2 billion in total economic impact.

Aviation By the Numbers

According to FAA data, Michigan is home to 193 public-use general aviation airports, 19,539 pilots, and 7,195 registered aircraft.

Number of Jobs

According to the 2017 Michigan Aviation System Plan, general aviation airports support over 33,000 jobs in Michigan, resulting in over $1.4 billion in labor income.

Economic Impact

According to the same study, general aviation airports in Michigan support over $5.2 billion in total economic impact annually.

According to FAA data, Michigan is home to 88 repair stations, 11 FAA-approved pilot schools, 7,901 student pilots, and 3,419 flight instructors.

In addition, there are 110 fixed-base operators in the state, according to the comprehensive AC-U-KWIK directory.

According to the University Aviation Association, flight departments in Michigan include Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, Lansing Community College in Lansing, MIAT College of Technology in Canton, Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City, and Western Michigan University College of Aviation in Battle Creek.

Michael Alaimo, Director of Environmental and Energy Affairs at the Michigan Chamber of Commerce

"On the heels of this unprecedented global pandemic and with thousands of businesses and virtually every industry and supply chain in our country reliant on aviation and general aviation, now is the time to invest in this critical part of our infrastructure. This will not only help businesses to maintain and increase their efficiency and productivity, but ensure access to over 5,000 airports, including 211 general aviation airports in Michigan that support more than 33,000 jobs.

Here in Michigan, companies like AvFuel and Williams International are expanding the use of SAF, while major employers, such as the automotive industry, are making investments in AAM. We should support these investments at both the state and national level."

Mayor Mark Behnke, Battle Creek, Michigan

"The Battle Creek Executive Airport at Kellogg Field has been serving our community for almost 100 years. Annually, the airport has an economic impact of $438 million and a payroll of $93.7 million.

"Even without commercial airline service, the local airport is one of the three busiest in Michigan, supporting businesses and manufacturers through air cargo and corporate flight operations, as well as critical services for the local community. The airport is also home to Western Michigan University College of Aviation and a number of aviation businesses.

"General aviation and our network of local airports support our local economy and region, and help our companies and communities to stay competitive."

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    Proclamations & Resolutions

    Across the United States, governors and mayors from all 50 states have signed proclamations recognizing the importance of aviation industry. See what has passed in Michigan, choose from the list below.

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