Proclamation Recognizes Over 13,000 GA Pilots In The State

Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty (R) (pictured, right) recently declared October as "General Aviation Appreciation Month" in the state, a move supported by numerous organizations including the Alliance for Aviation Across America (AAAA), AOPA, NBAA, and the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO).

Minnesota Director of Aeronautics, Christopher Roy stated, "General aviation is a tremendous economic engine for the state of Minnesota and it continues to be a vitally important industry that brings many benefits to everyone. Aviation is an integral part of conducting business, moving cargo, and traveling for leisure."

"We commend Governor Pawlenty for highlighting the immense value that general aviation provides to the state of Minnesota," said Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America.  "General aviation is a literal lifeline for small businesses, farmers, non-profit humanitarian organizations, law enforcement, and medical care across the state, and this proclamation is a great step forward in promoting the value of this important industry."

"Governor Pawlenty's proclamation gives well-deserved recognition to the more than 13,000 pilots and hundreds of airports that support local economies and communities across the state," said AOPA President and CEO Craig L. Fuller.  "We commend this important proclamation and look forward to continuing to work with the Governor to promote the value of general aviation in Minnesota and throughout the nation."

"The business aviation community commends Governor Pawlenty for his support for general aviation in Minnesota," said National Business Aviation Association President and CEO Ed Bolen. "General aviation in the state allows businesses to reach places where the commercial airlines do not fly. Businesses across Minnesota rely on aircraft to reach customers in small towns and rural communities that would otherwise take hours to reach. In total, Minnesota airports generate $12.2 billion in economic activity in the state. This impact includes the creation of 164,900 jobs in the state as well as $6.5 billion in labor income."

Henry Ogrodzinski, President of the National Association of State Aviation Officials said, "Chris Roy, Director of the Minnesota Department of Transportation's Office of Aeronautics has been vital in continuing to promote a solid aerospace and aviation industry within Minnesota. America?s massive network of community airports is critical to sustaining the millions of jobs and providing access to a host of important services and resources. I applaud both him and Governor Pawlenty for their hard work and look forward to continuing to work with them in the future."

FMI: www.governor.state.mn.us