Aug. 8, 2017

The governors of Louisiana and South Carolina, along with mayors in cities around the country, are recognizing the importance of general aviation this month, by underscoring the value it brings to their communities and citizens. To date, officials in all 50 states, as well as hundreds of mayors around the country have issued such proclamations.

“Aviation and community airports play a critical role in the lives of citizens, businesses and quality of life,” wrote Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards. “Louisiana has a significant interest in the continued vitality of aviation, aerospace, aircraft manufacturing, educational institutions, aviation organizations, community airports and airport operators.”

Louisiana is home to 63 public-use general aviation airports, which serve about 7,000 pilots. There are 4,297 active general aviation aircraft in the state, which also is home to 33 repair stations, five FAA-approved flight schools and 62 fixed-base operators. General aviation supports 9,300 jobs in Louisiana, according to the proclamation.

View the Louisiana proclamation. (PDF)

“Airports support and assist South Carolina in many ways,” noted Gov. Henry McMaster in his proclamation, which specifies Aug. 19 as South Carolina Aviation Day, in conjunction with National Aviation Day. According to a state economic study, more than 753,000 visitors arrive to South Carolina by general aviation aircraft, accounting for an additional $87 million in economic impact annually.

“Many businesses in our state rely on aviation, both commercial service and general aviation airports, for the efficient transportation of people and goods,” he added. South Carolina is home to 58 general aviation airports.

View the South Carolina proclamation. (PDF)

Other August proclamations include: