Today, national aviation organizations applauded Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman for declaring May 2014 “General Aviation Appreciation Month.” In Nebraska, general aviation accounts for $721 million in economic activity annually, and air transportation supports 5,250 jobs statewide.
“Governor Heineman’s proclamation helps to highlight the importance of general aviation in Nebraska and throughout the nation,” said Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America. “General aviation supports businesses and communities throughout the state, and we thank the Governor for highlighting this critical industry.”
“General aviation is an important lifeline in Nebraska, connecting communities and businesses with important resources, supplies and services,” stated Mark Baker, President and CEO of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). “Governor Heineman’s proclamation brings attention to the benefits of general aviation to communities throughout the state and the nation.”
“Business aviation is an important tool for companies of all sizes in Nebraska and throughout the United States,” said Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). “General aviation aircraft help businesses to meet with clients and customers, transport goods and reach far-off markets. We commend Governor Heineman for signing this proclamation, and look forward to working with him in the future.”
“We thank Governor Heineman for signing this proclamation and highlighting the important role of general aviation and local airports,” said Jack Pelton, Chairman of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). “This proclamation will help to raise awareness about this important form of transportation and encourage young people to learn more about aviation.”
Kim Stevens, interim President and CEO of the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) noted, “General aviation connects communities throughout Nebraska with vital services such as medical care, law enforcement and public safety. We would like to thank Governor Heineman and Department of Aeronautics Director Ronnie Mitchell for their efforts in promoting general aviation in the state of Nebraska.”
“General aviation and local airports are a tremendous resource for local communities and businesses across the state,” stated Thomas L. Hendricks, President and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association. “NATA and our member companies in Nebraska applaud Governor Heineman’s recognition of general aviation as a vital resource and economic driver.”
“Helicopters and other general aviation aircraft play a vital role in supporting Nebraska’s businesses and first-responder and law-enforcement network,” said Matthew Zuccaro, President of the Helicopter Association International (HAI). “We applaud Governor Heineman’s proclamation and recognition of this important industry.”