March 18, 2011
Citing the critical role general aviation and community airports play in the lives of the state’s citizens and the operation of its businesses and farms, New Hampshire Governor John Lynch proclaimed March 2011 “General Aviation Appreciation Month” in the state.
“The State of New Hampshire 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,” said Lynch in his proclamation. “Many communities in New Hampshire depend heavily on general aviation and community airports for the continued flow of commerce, tourists and visitors to our state.”
The governor’s proclamation was made as the Granite State Airport Managers Association (GSAMA) was holding its GSAMA at the Capitol Day on March 16. GSAMA representatives met with several legislators at the State House in Concord, including the chair of the Finance Committee and the New Hampshire Aviation Caucus. The event focused on the importance of airports – including general aviation airports – to New Hampshire’s economy, and Lynch echoed that message in his proclamation.
“New Hampshire is home to 24 public use general aviation airports,” said the governor, “which serve 5,908 pilots and 2,055 general aviation aircraft. General aviation supports 8,000 jobs in New Hampshire, producing $412 million in payroll.”
GSAMA President Rick Dyment welcomed the governor’s proclamation. “The governor’s proclamation means a lot to New Hampshire general aviation and our airports,” said Dyment, who is the manager of Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB). “The proclamation, signed by the governor and Executive Council, acknowledges the contribution of general aviation in creating jobs, generating economic benefits and supporting New Hampshire businesses.”
Also cited by the governor was the vital role general aviation plays in the state’s response to emergencies and natural disasters, a central theme of the No Plane No Gain advocacy campaign co-sponsored by NBAA and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association. With Lynch’s proclamation, New Hampshire becomes the second state to publicly endorse the No Plane No Gain messages in 2011, after North Dakota. Last year, 19 states made such proclamations.
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.