Aviation appreciation month comes to a close in Alabama
October 30, 2012, 04:25 pm
Robert Bentley, the governor of Alabama, declared late in the month that October is General Aviation Appreciation in the state. Alabama was one of two states in the U.S. that declared October as the month to honor general aviation.
Selena Shilad, executive director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America, commended Bentley for his recognition of general aviation throughout Alabama, adding that the industry's local airports support law enforcement, medical providers, fire fighting, local businesses and residents. In addition, general aviation contributes nearly $800 million each year in economic activity to the state.
“Alabama relies greatly on general aviation aircraft and airports, which help to contribute to economic growth within the state and support commerce and tourism,” said Craig Fuller, president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. “These facilities and dedicated pilots are also essential to the delivery of disaster relief and medical care across the state. We extend our gratitude to Governor Bentley for helping to create greater awareness about general aviation in Alabama and beyond.”
"General aviation nationwide supports 1.2 million jobs and generates $150 billion every year, including $800 million in economic activity here in Alabama," said Ed Bolen, president and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association. "General aviation specifically helps businesses to stay connected and compete in the global marketplace. We thank Governor Bentley for signing this proclamation recognizing the importance of business aviation to local communities across Alabama and the nation.”
Alabama was not the only state that named October General Aviation Appreciation Month. Earlier in the month, Governor Earl Ray Tomblin of West Virginia also named October General Aviation Month for his state.
General aviation plays a crucial role in the economy of West Virginia, contributing $616 million every year and playing a supporting role to medical treatment, commerce and other critical services throughout the state. Many general aviation industry officials extended their gratitude to the governor for showing support to general aviation.
Shilad thanked the governor and said that general aviation is critical in local communities for the survival of businesses, charities, law enforcement and hospitals.
Fuller said the announcement recognizes 32 public airports throughout West Virginia, which support 1,370 general aviation aircraft and more than 2,200 pilots. In addition, the general aviation industry provides medical care and disaster relief, while connecting the state's communities with each other and the rest of the country.
General aviation announcements serve as a good reminder to the many pilots in the industry to consider pilot insurance to plan their family's financial future.
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