April 12, 2016
In April, Gov. Rick Scott of Florida and Gov. Jay Nixon of Missouri, recognized the value that general aviation, including business aviation, brings to their states.
Scott noted that Florida ranks second in the nation for aerospace and aviation establishments, adding, “The state of Florida has a significant interest in the continued vitality of aviation, aircraft and aerospace manufacturing, commercial service and community airports, and aviation education.”
The state is home to 108 community airports, and more than 8.5 percent of Florida’s gross state product results from business dependent upon aviation, Scott noted.
“Florida’s general aviation/community airports accommodate more than 9 million visitors and business travelers annually,” according to the proclamation. “In total, aviation represents more than $144 billion in annual economic activity.”
Scott specifically recognized the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), the Florida Aviation Business Association and other aviation groups for their contributions to the state.
Review the full Florida proclamation. (PDF)
“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,” Nixon wrote in his proclamation, which was released in conjunction with 10th annual Missouri State Aviation Day.
Missouri boasts 124 public-use, general aviation airports, serving 9,284 pilots and 3,847 general aviation aircraft. The state also is home to 31 charter flight companies, 54 airport repair stations and eight flight schools.
General aviation generates $857 million in annual economic activity annual, and many communities in Missouri depend on general aviation and community airports for the continued flow of commerce to the state.
“According to a 2013 Missouri Statewide Airports Economic Impact Study, general aviation supports 7,449 jobs statewide,” the proclamation states. “Overall, Missouri’s airport system supports 100,621 jobs with an annual payroll of $3.1 billion.”
Nixon also acknowledged NBAA and other aviation groups in his proclamation.