JAA Applauds Governor, Legislature For Promoting Commercial Space Industry In Jacksonville, FL

Florida Governor Rick Scott has signed into law a space territory measure that will strengthen the ability of Cecil Airport in Jacksonville to compete as a commercial horizontal launch spaceport.

Under House Bill 59, Cecil Airport (pictured) will be included in Space Florida’s master planning efforts and be eligible for appropriate infrastructure improvements that will ultimately allow Florida to compete for spaceflight industries business. Additionally, it provides Space Florida the flexibility needed to strengthen Florida’s aviation and aerospace industries, and further position Florida in attracting commercial space companies.
Cecil Airport, owned and operated by the Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA), is one of eight Commercial Spaceports in the United States licensed for horizontal launch capabilities, and the only one in Florida.

“We want to applaud Gov. Scott and the Florida Legislature for this very important piece of legislation,” said JAA Director of External Affairs Michael Stewart. “We especially want to thank the initial sponsors Representative Lake Ray and Senator Steven Wise and the entire Duval Delegation for their strong support and leadership in sponsoring the bill.”

The Florida Chamber of Commerce had made the passage of the space territory bill a priority during this year’s Legislative session. “Ensuring Florida remain a global leader in spaceflight activity is a top priority for the Florida Chamber,” said Ryan West, Director of Talent and Innovation Policy for the Florida Chamber of Commerce. “A vibrant space and aerospace industry are essential for generating reemployment opportunities for displaced shuttle program workers.”

FMI: www.flyjacksonville.com