July 25, 2012
Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker proclaimed July 23 to 29, 2012, as “Aviation Week” in the state, noting the value of aviation in providing safe, efficient transportation for businesses in the state, and the important role all aviation, including business aviation, plays in Wisconsin’s economy.
“Studies have shown that 85 percent of new or expanding manufacturers in the state chose to locate within 15 miles of a jet-capable airport,” Walker said in his proclamation. “Aviation and airports generate almost $3 billion annually in economic activity and support more than 41,000 jobs.” Wisconsin offers almost 730 landing areas, and 133 of those are public-use airports.
Review the Wisconsin proclamation.
According to the Wisconsin transportation officials, about 70 percent of general aviation (GA) activity at Wisconsin airports is business related, and community airports in Wisconsin have the same aggregate economic impact as commercial airports in the state.
Wisconsin Transportation Development Association Executive Director Craig Thompson Reported: “We have an airport in every county, and they contribute greatly to Wisconsin’s future growth and well-being.”
In his proclamation, Gov. Walker notes that aviation overall provides more than $1 billion in yearly personal income for residents of the Badger State and carries more than 6.5 million passengers and 116 million pounds of cargo annually.
An “Aviation Week” proclamation similar to Gov. Walker’s was issued in 2010 by then-Governor Jim Doyle. The 2010 proclamation, and this year’s declaration of the industry’s value both echo the themes of the No Plane No Gain advocacy campaign, launched in early 2009 and sponsored jointly by NBAA and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association. Since the campaign was launched, 40 states have issued official recognition of the importance of aviation, including business aviation, in their states.
The dates for this year’s Wisconsin Aviation Week coincide with AirVenture, the Experimental Aircraft Association’s annual convention held in Oshkosh, WI. The event annually attracts more than a half million enthusiasts, including many people from the business aviation community. NBAA has maintained a high profile on the AirVenture flight line for the past six years, offering Members a large tent with a view of the air show from rocking chairs on the tent’s back porch.
“Aviation is an important economic component for Wisconsin, and the governor’s proclamation recognizes all of that, including the importance of business aviation,” said Bob Quinn, NBAA Central regional representative.
“We thank Governor Walker for recognizing the value of business aviation to citizens, companies and communities in Wisconsin,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “The industry is clearly a major economic driver in the state.”
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.