New Mexico relies on GA for businesses, tourism, aviation training, agricultural applications, and police and fire protection. Gov. Bill Richardson recognized the importance of aviation to his state by proclaiming September 2010 “Aviation and Aerospace Appreciation Month.”
The proclamation cites the strong aviation community in New Mexico as well as businesses’ and communities’ dependence on small aircraft for access to medical treatment, economic opportunity, disaster relief, search and rescue, and more.
“[M]any New Mexico communities depend on the continued flow of tourists and visitors who come to enjoy the resources and recreational activities available in the Land of Enchantment via private aircraft,” the document reads. It also notes that the state is proud of its role as a leader in aviation and aerospace with the construction of Spaceport America, which is designed for commercial passenger space flights.
The state has a robust aviation industry, with companies such as Aspen Avionics and Eclipse Aerospace. It also hosts the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, an event that draws pilots from around the world.
“With more than 4,800 general aviation pilots and more than 60 public-use airports across the state, general aviation helps to drive the economies of these local communities and supports everything from medical care to business growth, and agriculture to law enforcement across New Mexico," said AOPA President Craig Fuller. "We appreciate Governor Richardson's recognition of the economic impact of general aviation and look forward to working with him to promote these important airports and aircraft.”
Proclamations like the one in New Mexico illustrate that political leaders are aware of the many benefits of their state’s aviation industry. AOPA continually promotes the benefits of general aviation to lawmakers in each state and monitors all legislative actions that could affect GA.
