National Aviation Organizations Praise Governor Dennis Daugaard's Proclamation

National aviation organizations are praising South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard (pictured) for his proclamation declaring June “General Aviation Appreciation Month.” Across South Dakota, general aviation generates $303 million in economic activity annually. “Governor Daugaard’s proclamation helps to highlight the importance of this vital industry and economic driver,” said Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America. “For communities across South Dakota and the country, general aviation is a critical tool for farms, businesses and first responders.”

“General aviation, including business aviation, represents 1.2 million jobs and $150 billion in economic activity here in the United States,” said Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). “Governor Daugaard’s proclamation highlights the importance of this industry and the many benefits of business aviation for companies, farms and communities throughout the state.”

Henry Ogrodzinski, President of the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) stated, “For cities and towns in South Dakota, general aviation and community airports help to connect residents with goods and services, support business growth and provide access for first responders. We thank Governor Duagaard for his support and look forward to working with him and South Dakota Department of Transportation Program Manager Bruce Lindholm on issues concerning community airports and general aviation.”

“For South Dakota and the rest of the country, general aviation provides a crucial link for communities and supports economic growth and community access,” said Thomas L. Hendricks, President and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association (NATA). “We welcome the Governor’s proclamation and appreciate his leadership in highlighting the vital importance of general aviation and local airports for South Dakota and our nation.”

“Across South Dakota, the state’s network of airports and aircraft is a vital resource, connecting communities and allowing essential services to reach farmers, local businesses and patients,” stated Craig L. Fuller, President and CEO of the Aircraft Owners And Pilots Association (AOPA). “We thank Governor Daugaard and look forward to working with him to raise awareness about general aviation and the value of our pilots and community airports to the country.”

“The Governor's proclamation highlights the vital role that helicopters and general aviation have in connecting communities and helping residents to gain access to life-saving services,” stated Matt Zuccaro, President of the Helicopter Association International (HAI). “We appreciate Governor Daugaard's efforts, and look forward to working with him on this and other efforts related to helicopters and general aviation.”

FMI: http://sd.gov/governor/