March 24, 2011
When members of the New York Aviation Management Association (NYAMA) gathered in Albany last week for their annual Advocacy Day, the state legislature adopted a special resolution honoring the group and recognizing the value of aviation, including business aviation, in the Empire State.
“This legislative body is justly proud to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the New York Aviation Management Association, and to celebrate the benefits of aviation in New York state,” read the legislative resolution adopted on March 22 in the New York State Senate and Assembly. The resolution was introduced in each chamber by the co-chairs of the New York Legislative Aviation Caucus, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell) and Senator Bill Larkin (R-C, Cornwall-on-Hudson).
“I welcome the New York Aviation Management Association to Albany for their annual Advocacy Day,” said Larkin. “NYAMA has been a tremendous voice for New York’s airports and I look forward to working with them during this legislative session.”
“Airports and the aviation industry fuel economic growth throughout New York with a $35 billion economic impact that generates more than $2.8 billion in state and local taxes,” said Lupardo.
Lupardo and Larkin’s resolution cited the many benefits business aviation generates in New York, echoing the themes of the No Plane No Gain campaign co-sponsored by NBAA and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association.
“Business aviation is a critical tool for companies in New York,” read the resolution, “bringing new business, investment and jobs to this state; business aircraft improve efficiency, save money and open up opportunities for rural areas not served by commercial aviation.”
The resolution also emphasized the vital role airports play in New York’s communities, which depend on general aviation for “access to medical treatment, economic opportunity, disaster relief, law enforcement [and] search and rescue.” NYAMA members welcomed the resolution and the support with which the legislature responded to their Advocacy Day.
“For 35 years, NYAMA has been the voice of aviation in New York state,” said Carl Beardsley, president of NYAMA and commissioner of aviation at Greater Binghamton Airport (BGM). “It’s an honor to be recognized by the legislature for our work promoting airports as economic engines. We truly appreciate the leadership of Assemblywoman Lupardo and Senator Larkin in advancing aviation.”
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.