Declares October ‘General Aviation Appreciation Month’

National aviation organizations are recognizing Alabama Governor Robert Bentley (R) for declaring October “General Aviation Appreciation Month.” In Alabama, the general aviation industry is extremely important to the economy and local communities, contributing $800 million each year in economic activity. 

“We commend Governor Bentley (pictured) for his recognition of the significant impact that general aviation has on the state of Alabama,” said Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America. “General aviation and local airports provide invaluable support to law enforcement, medical providers, fire fighting, local businesses and residents throughout Alabama.”

Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) stated, “General aviation nationwide supports 1.2 million jobs and generates $150 billion every year, including $800 million in economic activity here in Alabama.  General aviation specifically helps businesses to stay connected and compete in the global marketplace.  We thank Governor Bentley for signing this proclamation recognizing the importance of business aviation to local communities across Alabama and the nation.”

“General aviation supports and connects communities throughout Alabama and our nation,” said Henry Ogrodzinski, President of the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO). “We look forward to working with both Governor Bentley and Dr. John C. Eagerton IV, Chief of the Aeronautics Bureau of the Alabama Department of Transportation in order to raise greater awareness about the issues facing general aviation in Alabama and beyond.”

“Essential services in Alabama such as fire-fighting, law enforcement, and medical transport, among others, all rely heavily on general aviation,” stated Tom Hendricks, President and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association (NATA). “This proclamation helps to raise awareness of the importance of general aviation and local airports in Alabama and across the country.”

“The 61 rotorcraft landing pads in Alabama allow helicopters to support multiple aspects of Alabama’s economy and public safety,” said Matt Zuccaro, President of the Helicopter Association International (HAI). “We appreciate Governor Bentley’s efforts in acknowledging the value of the general aviation industry to the state of Alabama.”

“Alabama relies greatly on general aviation aircraft and airports, which help to contribute to economic growth within the state, and support commerce and tourism,” said AOPA president Craig Fuller. “These facilities and dedicated pilots are also essential to the delivery of disaster relief and medical care across the state. We extend our gratitude to Governor Bentley for helping to create greater awareness about general aviation in Alabama and beyond.”

FMI: http://governor.alabama.gov