Move Commended By National Aviation Organizations

National aviation organizations on Monday commended Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe’s proclamation of August as “General Aviation Appreciation Month.” Across the state of Arkansas, general aviation supports 5,400 jobs and contributes nearly $500 million to the state’s economy each year.

“We commend Governor Beebe (pictured) for this proclamation highlighting the important role that general aviation plays in Arkansas and throughout the United States,” said Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America. “General aviation provides critical services for communities, large and small. We appreciate the Governor’s support and look forward to working with him in the future.”
 
"General aviation aircraft and airports are critical to businesses in Arkansas and throughout the United States,” stated Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association. “Access to general aviation services allows these businesses to not only survive but to truly thrive. We are grateful for Governor Beebe’s work to spread the word about the importance of general aviation to small businesses and the local economy.”
 
“Arkansas has a network of 90 airports that help to connect the state’s businesses, public safety officials and communities,” said Henry Ogrodzinski, President of the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO). “We are excited about the Governor’s proclamation and are eager to work with him and John Knight, Director of the Arkansas Department of Aeronautics, on issues related to general aviation.”
 
“General aviation links communities across the Natural state and provides opportunities for businesses and economic growth,” said Thomas L. Hendricks, President and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association. “NATA and its member companies across Arkansas applaud the Governor’s actions in recognizing general aviation as a vital resources to the state’s competitiveness and growth.”

“General aviation contributes to public safety, aids commerce, and supports the delivery of goods and services across the state,” noted Craig L. Fuller, President and CEO of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). “We appreciate the Governor’s leadership in highlighting the vital importance of general aviation to local communities and the state’s overall economy.”
 
“General aviation’s contribution to public safety is vitally important,” said Matt Zuccaro, President of the Helicopter Association International (HAI). “Helicopters, in particular, are a vital resource to the first responders and law enforcement officials who are often tasked with challenging missions that only general aviation aircraft can perform. Through his proclamation of August as ‘General Aviation Appreciation Month,’ Governor Beebe has helped to recognize the importance of this industry and demonstrate his commitment to the public safety of citizens living in Arkansas.”

FMI: http://governor.arkansas.gov