GA Adds $417 Million To The State's Economy Annually

South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley recently declared August 17-23 as "South Carolina Aviation Week with a proclamation recognizing the contributions of general aviation to the state's economy.

In South Carolina, GA accounts for more than $417 million in economic activity annually.

“We thank Governor Haley (pictured) for recognizing the importance of general aviation and local airports in the state of South Carolina,” said Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America. “General aviation is an important economic driver and lifeline that supports thousands of jobs and connects local services throughout the state.”

“Business aviation helps South Carolina companies reach customers, suppliers and markets, thus allowing them to operate in an increasingly competitive environment,” explained Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). “We thank Governor Haley for her proclamation and look forward to working with her to support business aviation.”

“Aviation is a lifeline to communities, a driver for business and a passion for many across our country,” said Jack Pelton, Chairman of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). “We appreciate the Governor’s recognition of the importance of aviation, and we look forward to working with her to continue to encourage awareness about this importance form of transportation.”

Kim Stevens, interim President and CEO of the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) noted, “South Carolina’s network of airports helps the state’s companies, farms, and communities reach necessary goods, services, and businesses. We applaud Governor Haley and Division of Aeronautics Interim Executive Director James Stephens for their hard work in highlighting the benefits of general aviation and aviation as a whole in South Carolina.”

“General aviation and local airports are essential to the competitiveness and growth of businesses in South Carolina and around the nation,” stated Thomas L. Hendricks, President and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association. “NATA and our member companies in South Carolina thank Governor Haley for recognizing the many benefits general aviation provides to people and communities across the state.”

“General aviation is a means to stay connected for thousands of businesses and communities across South Carolina,” said Mark Baker, President and CEO of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). “We commend Governor Haley’s proclamation recognizing the significance and benefits of general aviation to South Carolina and across the country.”

“Helicopters and other general aviation aircraft are important tools that are used to support communities, assist first responders and give businesses a competitive edge,” said Matthew Zuccaro, President of the Helicopter Association International (HAI). “We appreciate the Governor for her proclamation and look forward to working with her to raise awareness about this vital form of transportation.”

FMI: http://governor.sc.gov