FATA Partners With AOPA And FAC To Get Passage Of Significant Legislation For Aviation In The State

The Florida Aviation Trades Association (FATA) is pleased to announce the passage of legislation that benefits aviation businesses in Florida and also the aircraft owner. The changes in language to the current state statute clearly defines the exemption of FBOs from the state intangible tax. Working to reduce the weight of aircraft now eligible for the sales tax exemption on parts and maintenance to 2,000 pounds not only benefits the aircraft owner but provides new opportunities for repair and maintenance facilities in the State.

FATA worked closely with the Florida Airports Council (FAC) to change to language of the statute to clarify that FBOs are exempt from the intangible tax. "The passage of HB7087 marks a huge victory for both FATA and the aviation industry that is so vital to Florida's economy," said Sandy Showalter, FATA President. "I can speak firsthand to the effect that the FBO intangible tax exemption will have; the state had already given my family's FBO our tax bill and paying it would have wiped out some hardscrabble savings cobbled together during these last few very lean years. This exemption gives us the confidence to fill two open positions that we have been doing without for several months, and that is no hyperbole."

A joint effort between FATA and the AOPA has resulted in decreasing the weight of aircraft eligible for tax exemption on parts and labor from 15,000 pounds to 2,000 pounds. “The sales tax exemption for maintenance on aircraft over 2,000 lbs puts Florida on equal footing with nearby states thus making our shops more competitive," Showalter said. "Today is truly a great day and I couldn't be more thankful for the help of Eric Prutsman, FATA's very able lobbyist, and for the assistance of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association."

FMI: www.fata.aero