Three States, Six Cities Recognize Value of General Aviation

May 27, 2015

This spring, top state officials in California, Nebraska and New York officially declared their state’s appreciation for general aviation (GA), including business aviation. In Missouri, Nebraska and Virginia, six city mayors did likewise.

In California, recognition came as California Senate Concurrent Resolution 33, which proclaimed April as “Aviation Awareness Month.” The resolution was notable for its focus on business aviation and clearing up misconceptions about the industry. “The Legislature recognizes the vital role general aviation plays in the economy, health, safety and protection of the nation,” the proclamation states.

The resolution also included a statement pledging lawmakers would abstain from legislation or policies that impact industry’s ability to function effectively. Read the full California resolution. (PDF)

In New York, Gov. Andrew Cuomo proclaimed May “Aviation Appreciation Month,” reminding citizens of his state that the industry plays a critical role in economic prosperity. He noted that nearly 400,000 state residents are employed by aviation. Read the New York proclamation. (PDF)

Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts’ proclamation declared May as “General Aviation Appreciation Month,” stating that GA in the state has an economic output of $1.2 billion annually and supports 7,900 jobs. View the Nebraska proclamation. (PDF) Local officials recently recognizing GA include:

• Columbia, MO (PDF)
• Culpeper, VA (PDF)
• Grand Island, NE (PDF)
• North Platte, NE (PDF)
• Omaha, NE (PDF)
• Scottsbluff, NE (PDF)

Since the launch of the No Plane No Gain campaign in 2009 by NBAA and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, all 50 states and more than 100 local municipalities have issued statements in support of general aviation.