Washington, DC – The Alliance for Aviation Across America thanked Governor
Gina Raimondo for declaring March 2017 “General Aviation Appreciation Month.” In
Rhode Island, general aviation airports contribute approximately $214 million, or
$203 per capita, to the state’s economy.
“General aviation, like all aviation, plays a critical role supporting communities,
business activity, and tourism throughout the state,” said Selena Shilad, Executive
Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America. “We thank Governor Raimondo
for recognizing general aviation and look forward to working with her in future.”
“Rhode Island’s heliports and public-use airport support critical services like air
ambulances and law enforcement and support businesses and local services,” said Matt
Zuccaro, President of Helicopter Association International (HAI). “We thank Governor
Raimondo and the Rhode Island Airport Corporation for their continued recognition
and support of general aviation.”
Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA),
noted “Business aviation connects communities and businesses, helping them to
transport personnel, tools and goods in a timely manner, connecting them with
far-off markets and helping them to stay competitive in an increasingly global
economy. NBAA and its members thank the Governor and look forward to working with
her on issues critical to business aviation.”
According to the proclamation:
“General aviation airports support 1,476 jobs across the state.”