General aviation supports 8,000 jobs in New Hampshire and plays a vital role in responding to emergencies. Gov. John Lynch recognized the importance of aviation to his state with a proclamation dubbing March 2011 “General Aviation Appreciation Month.”
The proclamation, dated March 16, cites the critical role of GA in citizens’ lives and in the operation of businesses and farms. It was made at the “GSAMA at the Capital Day,” an event held by the Granite State Airport Managers’ Association (GSAMA), a nonprofit organization that works toward maintaining and improving the state’s airport system. The organization worked with the Alliance for Aviation Across America to promote the proclamation, with support from the New Hampshire Aviation Caucus and other state legislative officials.
“The state of New Hampshire has a significant interest in the continued vitality of general aviation, aerospace, aircraft manufacturing, educational institutions and aviation organizations and community airports and airport operators,” the document reads. It adds that the state is home to many GA businesses.
"New Hampshire has a strong general aviation industry," said AOPA President Craig Fuller. "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."
Proclamations like the one in New Hampshire 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.
"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, which promotes this type of proclamation in states across the country. "General aviation is a critical lifeline for businesses, law enforcement, charities, medical organizations, and farmers across New Hampshire and the entire United States."
GSAMA comprises managers and owners of the state’s public-use airports, aviation engineering professionals, FAA regional representatives, New Hampshire Bureau of Aeronautics personnel, and other individuals with strong aviation ties. The association uses GSAMA at the Capital Day to educate state lawmakers about airports in their districts and the value of aviation.
