Spring has sprung and pilots appreciate the beginning of what is commonly referred to as the flying season. It seems the feeling must be catching, because April has been named to recognize the importance of aviation in the states of Florida, Missouri, and Utah.
General aviation contributes more than $7.7 billion to the state’s economy annually in Florida, and as a way of recognizing the importance of this contribution, Florida Governor Rick Scott declared April “Aviation Appreciation Month.”
“Florida’s network of local airports is incredibly important for the transportation of employees, equipment, goods and services across the state,” said Mark Baker, President of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). “We thank the Governor for recognizing the many ways that general aviation supports communities in Florida.”
Missouri Governor Jay Nixon declared April “General Aviation Appreciation Month.” In the “Show Me” state general aviation airports contribute more than $857 million to the state’s economy.
“We thank Governor Nixon for his proclamation, which emphasizes the importance of general aviation and local airports in Missouri,” said Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America. “General aviation helps business and commerce to thrive and also supports healthcare, firefighting and disaster relief services throughout the country.”
In Utah, general aviation airports account for over $274 million in economic activity annually. Utah Governor Gary Herbert joined in with the governors from Missouri and Florida by declaring April “Aviation Appreciation Month in Utah.”
“General aviation helps to link Utah communities to vital goods and services throughout the state,” said Jack Pelton, Chairman of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). “We thank the Governor for his proclamation, and hope that it will educate citizens about the importance of general aviation and encourage passion in flying.”
Other organizations expressing their appreciation were the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), the Alliance for Aviation Across America, the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), the National Air Transportation Association (NATA), and the Helicopter Association International (HAI).
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