January 11, 2010
The essential role of general aviation, including business aviation, in supporting West Virginia’s economy was recognized in a proclamation signed last week by the state’s governor, Joe Manchin III (D-WV).
The proclamation declares January 2010 “General Aviation Appreciation Month” in the state, and notes that in West Virginia, “A great many businesses and communities depend upon General Aviation aircraft and small aircraft of all types for access to medical treatment, mobility, economic opportunity, disaster relief and a wide range of critical resources.”
The proclamation goes on to note that in the state, general aviation contributes $616 million, or $333 per capita to the state’s economy, and that West Virginia is home to eight charter flight companies, 12 repair stations, and three flight schools operating 10 aircraft and 20 fixed-base operators. Additionally, the proclamation states, “Companies such as Aurora Flight Services, Bombardier Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, Pratt & Whitney and Tiger Aircraft…have manufacturing and repair facilities in the state.”
The provided by business aviation in generating jobs, serving towns with little or no airlines service, helping companies be more productive and efficient, and serving people and communities in times of crisis are among those articulated by the No Plane No Gain advocacy campaign. NBAA staff attended the proclamation signing ceremony.
Download the “General Aviation Appreciation Month” proclamation (443KB, PDF)
To see other grassroots initiatives that have been part of the No Plane No Gain advocacy campaign, visit www.noplanenogain.org.
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.