General aviation groups cheered on Tuesday as the the House General Aviation Caucus has reached a milestone of 200 members of Congress. The groups said this represents significant support in Congress for general aviation, and helps to raise awareness about the $150 billion in economic activity and 1.2 million American jobs that are supported by this industry.
“The General Aviation Caucus serves a very important function to help educate Members of Congress and their staff about the vital role of general aviation in our country,” said Thomas L. Hendricks, President and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association (NATA). “As one of the biggest caucuses of its kind, we are encouraged by the level of support and participation it has received.”
The House Caucus, which was formed in 2009, is chaired by Rep. Sam Graves (R-Mo.) and Rep. John Barrow (D-Ga.).
“We thank the members of the House General Aviation Caucus and their counterparts in the Senate for their support of this crucial industry, which helps to support more than a million jobs, cultivates economic opportunity and bolsters communities’ access to live-saving services,” stated Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). “With the support of this broad and bipartisan coalition of lawmakers, we are optimistic that debates over policies impacting this vital industry will be well informed.”
http://www.aviationtoday.com/the-checklist/House-GA-Caucus-Hits-200-Members_79802.html#.UfKhY9LqnsE