Proclamation From Governor John Lynch Praised By Letter Groups

National aviation organizations applauded New Hampshire Governor John Lynch on Wednesday for declaring March "General Aviation Appreciation Month." General aviation alone drives over $639 million in economic activity and supports over 8,000 jobs across the state. In response to the proclamation, the following groups stated:

"We commend Governor Lynch for his proclamation highlighting the importance of general aviation to New Hampshire," said Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America. "General aviation is a critical lifeline for businesses, law enforcement, charities, medical organizations, and farmers across Hew Hampshire and the entire United States."

"New Hampshire has a strong general aviation industry," added Craig L. Fuller, president and CEO of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. "More than 5,900 pilots utilize the 24 airports across the state to serve their customers, reach patients, deliver goods, and assist communities in times of natural disaster. We look forward to working with Governor Lynch on continuing to support this valuable industry."

"In New Hampshire and throughout the nation, business aviation is crucial to supporting strong economies and jobs, helping businesses to reach their customer base, and bringing essential services to communities in need.  All told, general aviation provides 1.2 million jobs and $150 billion in economic impact.  We look forward to working with him to raise awareness about this and other issues that are crucial to business aviation," said Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA).

Governor Lynch

Henry Ogrodzinski, President of the National Association of State Aviation Officials said, "Across the United States, our network of airports is critical to sustaining millions of jobs, and providing access to a host of important services and resources. We commend Governor Lynch as well as New Hampshire Department of Aeronautics Director Jack Ferns for their hard work in recognizing the importance of aviation industry in New Hampshire. We appreciate the governor's recognition of these airports and aircraft, and look forward to continuing to work with him to promote this valuable industry."

James K. Coyne, President and CEO of the National Air Transport Association (NATA) stated, "NATA fully supports the proclamation signed by New Hampshire Governor John Lynch that names March 2011 as "General Aviation Appreciation Month." It is support like this that lets general aviation's voice be heard.

"The helicopter's unique capabilities provide lifesaving services to the citizens of New Hampshire, along with many other missions conducted on behalf of the greater good," said Helicopter Association International (HAI) President Matt Zuccaro. "We thank Governor Lynch for his leadership and this opportunity to spotlight the economic and operational benefits that the helicopter and general aviation provide to the people of this great state."

FMI: http://www.aviationacrossamerica.org