Florida, Missouri Officials Highlight Value of General Aviation

April 17, 2017

The governors of Florida and Missouri, as well as local officials in these states and others, recognized general aviation, including business aviation, this month for the benefits it brings to their towns, cities and states. To date, hundreds of local and state officials in all 50 states have issued such proclamations detailing the importance of the industry to their region.

Florida

“Florida ranks second in the nation for aerospace and aviation establishments,” Gov. Rick Scott noted in his proclamation. “More than 8.5 percent of Florida gross state product results from businesses dependent upon aviation.”

Florida’s general aviation airports alone accommodate more than 9 million visitors and business travelers annually. In total, aviation represents more than $144 billion in annual economy activity, according to the proclamation.

View the Florida proclamation. (PDF)

Additional Florida proclamations this month include:

View a proclamation from Boca Raton Mayor Susan Haynie. (PDF)

View a proclamation from Lake Wales Mayor Eugene Fultz. (PDF)

View a proclamation from Palatka Mayor Terill Hill. (PDF)

Missouri

“General aviation and community airports play a critical role in the lives of our citizens, as well as in the operation of our businesses and farms,” wrote Gov. Eric Greitens in his proclamation.

“The state of Missouri has a significant interest in the continued vitality of general aviation, aerospace, aircraft manufacturing, educational institutions and aviation organizations, and community airports and airport operators,” he added.

The state is home to 123 public-use general aviation airports, and general aviation generates $857 million in economic activity annually.

View the Missouri proclamation. (PDF)