Groups Praise  Governor Rick Perry For Industry Support

For the second time in a week, national aviation organizations are welcoming a proclamation of November as "General Aviation Appreciation Month." Governor Rick Perry (pictured) made the proclamation recognizing the industry, which according to the Texas Department of Transportation drives over $14.6 billion in economic activity and supports over 61,000 jobs across the state.

"We thank Governor Perry for his proclamation highlighting the importance of general aviation to Texas, and also recognize the Texas Airport Council for their hard work in making this proclamation a reality " said Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America. "General aviation is a critical lifeline for businesses, law enforcement, charities, medical organizations, and farmers across Texas and the entire United States, and this proclamation is an important step in helping to raise awareness about this important form of transportation."
 
"Texas is home to 50,932 pilots and close to 400 airports that serve businesses, individuals, and organizations of all types. The vast size of the state makes air travel especially critical in Texas, and we thank the Governor for recognizing the importance of general aviation," said AOPA  president and CEO Craig Fuller. "We look forward to working with state and local officials to further raise awareness of and support for this vital industry."

"In Texas and throughout the nation, business aviation is crucial to supporting strong economies and jobs, helping businesses to reach their customer base, and bringing essential services to communities in need.” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen (pictured). “All told ,business aviation supports 1.2 million jobs and $150 billion in economic impact annually. We look forward to working with the Governor to further raise awareness about the industry's importance to his state and the country." 
 
"Across the country, general aviation and our network of airports are an integral part of our local communities, and a valuable resource for businesses and organizations," stated Henry Ogrodzinski, President of the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO). "We welcome this proclamation, and look forward to continuing to work with Texas Department of Transportation Aviation Division Director David Fulton on issues relating to aviation across Texas."
 
NATA President and CEO James K. Coyne said "General aviation supports local economies, law enforcement, medical care, and serves as a resource for countless other important services. We thank Governor Perry for highlighting the significance of this industry to the communities of Texas.”

"In communities throughout the United States, helicopters provide vital lifesaving services - just one of more than 50 mission profiles, conducted for the greater community or economic good,” said  HAI President Matthew Zuccaro (pictured). “We appreciate Governor Perry's signing of this proclamation, and look forward to working with him in the future to further highlight the tremendous economic and operational benefits of helicopters and general aviation.”

FMI: http://governor.state.tx.us