When aviation plays such a strong role in our community, it makes sense that August has been proclaimed General Aviation Appreciation Month in International Falls.
In Minnesota, general aviation contributes over $5.3 billion to the state’s economy annually, according to the Alliance for Aviation Across America.
The recent mayoral proclamation signed by Falls Mayor Bob Anderson was commended by the alliance, which said it helps highlight the economic benefits and valuable service that general aviation provides to the city of International Falls and the state of Minnesota.
Formed in 2007, the Alliance for Aviation Across America is a non-profit, non-partisan coalition of more than 6,300 individuals representing businesses, agricultural groups, fixed base operators, small airports, elected officials, charitable organizations, and leading business and aviation groups that support the interest of the general aviation community across various public policy issues.
The proclamation notes that general aviation not only supports Minnesota’s economy, but also improves the overall quality of life by supporting emergency medical and heath care services, law enforcement, firefighting and disaster relief and by transporting business travelers to their destinations quickly and safely.
The airport and our general aviation is clearly a vital strategic resource to the city, as noted in the proclamation.
We’ve heard it said many times over the years that this community’s largest employer may have a different status in this town if not for the commercial air service and airport here. And we’re sure we can count on a couple other entities in the community that may also be impacted without this service.
As this community prepares to improve and expand the terminal of the Falls International Airport, we ought to consider the value that aviation and the airport brings. The improvements are intended to better serve its customers and allow for more airplanes to be served.
Aviation and its various aspects have helped to make this community into what it is today. Our economy and our makeup may look very different without its strong presence. And as we fly into the future, we must make every effort to maintain and better our offerings.