Missouri Gov. Eric R. Greitens (R) recently signed a proclamation that recognizes April 2017 as General Aviation Appreciation Month in the Show-Me State. Greitens was elected Missouri’s 56th governor in November 2016.
With its international headquarters in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, the Aircraft Electronics Association was noted in the proclamation signed by Greitens as one of many organizations that “recognize and promote the interests and importance of aviation in Missouri and throughout the world.” The state of Missouri is home to 28 AEA member companies.
Office of the Governor
State of Missouri
Proclamation
WHEREAS, general aviation and community airports play a critical role in the Iives of our citizens, as well as in the operation of our businesses and farms; and
WHEREAS, the state of Missouri has a significant interest in the continued vitality of general aviation, aerospace, aircraft manufacturing, educational institutions and aviation organizations and community airports and airport operators; and
WHEREAS, the state of Missouri boasts 123 public-use general aviation airports, serving 9,284 pilots and 3,847 general aviation aircraft; and is home to 31 charter flight companies, 54 airport repair stations, one fractional provider, and 8 flight schools operating 86 aircraft and providing 193 jobs. In addition, there are 82 fixed-based operators in the state; and
WHEREAS, the Missouri Department of Transportation found that general aviation generates $857 million in economic activity annually; and many communities in Missouri depend heavily on general aviation and community airports for the continued flow of commerce, tourists and visitors to our State; and
WHEREAS, according to a 2013 Missouri Statewide Airports Economic Impact Study, general aviation supports 7,449 jobs statewide. Overall, Missouri’s airport system supports 100,621 jobs with an annual payroll of $3.1 billion; and
WHEREAS, general aviation plays a vital role in the State’s response to emergencies and natural disasters; and
WHEREAS, organizations like the Missouri Airport Managers Association, Missouri Pilots Association, National Business Aviation Association, National Association of State Aviation Officials, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Aircraft Electronics Association, Alliance for Aviation Across America, and National Air Transportation Association recognize and promote the interests and importance of aviation in Missouri and throughout the world.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Eric R. Greitens, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MISSOURI, do hereby proclaim April 2017 to be GENERAL AVIATION APPRECIATION MONTH.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Missouri in the City of Jefferson, this 31st day of March, 2017.
Eric R. Greitens, Governor
Attest: Jay Ashcroft, Secretary of State