National Aviation Organizations Welcome Proclamation

The usual cadre of national aviation organizations welcomed news Wednesday that Governor Chris Christie (pictured) has declared May "General Aviation Appreciation Month." GA in New Jersey alone generates over $4 billion in economic impact annually, supporting over 18,000 jobs.

"We are very excited that Governor Christie has signed a proclamation highlighting the importance  and immense value that general aviation provides not only in New Jersey, but the across the United States," said Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America. "We'd like to thank the New Jersey Aviation Association and the Morristown Municipal Airport for their dedication in promoting general aviation. General aviation serves as a lifeline for businesses, charities, medical organizations, law enforcement, and farmers across New Jersey and throughout the United States.  

"The business aviation community applauds Governor Christie for his support of the aviation industry," said National Business Aviation Association President and CEO Ed Bolen. "Across the United States, general aviation provides 1.2 million jobs and $150 billion in economic impact. This proclamation raises the awareness of the immense impact of this industry and other issues that are important to business aviation." 

Henry Ogrodzinski, President of the National Association of State Aviation Officials said, "Across the United States, our vast network of community airports is critical in sustaining millions of jobs and providing access to a host of important services and resources. We welcome the signing of this proclamation and look forward to working with Governor Christie, Commissioner James Simpson and Director of Multimodal Services Talvin Davis in the future."

James K. Coyne, President and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association (NATA), stated "The aviation community thanks Governor Christie for issuing this proclamation. It only further demonstrates the important role of this industry and the tremendous economic impact it has throughout the United States.

"The unique capabilities of helicopters allow them to provide vital lifesaving services to communities throughout New Jersey, along with many other missions conducted on behalf of the greater good," said Matthew Zuccaro, President of Helicopter Association International (HAI). We welcome Governor Christie's proclamation and thank him for the opportunity to spotlight the economic and operational benefits of helicopters and general aviation to communities across his state."

"With more than 14,000 general aviation pilots and more than 40 public-use airports across the state, general aviation helps to drive the economies of local communities across New Jersey," said AOPA President and CEO Craig L. Fuller. "We appreciate Governor Christie's recognition of the economic impact of general aviation and look forward to working with him to promote these important airports and aircraft."

FMI: www.state.nj.us/governor