AOPA works for GA tax exemptions
How does an exemption from sales and use taxes for aviation-related services, sales, and equipment sound? Pretty good, right? Well, AOPA is working with lawmakers in four states to show them that it's a good idea - not only for pilots and aircraft owners, but also for the states' economies.
"One of AOPA's primary goals is to keep flying affordable, and owning and maintaining an aircraft would be more affordable with a tax exemption," said Andy Cebula, AOPA executive vice president of government affairs. "States that have implemented such exemptions are experiencing increased aviation-related economic activity. That means legislators nationwide should be getting the message that if they want their states to remain competitive, they must provide relief from aircraft sales, service, and property taxes."
State officials in Connecticut and Illinois are considering bills that would exempt aircraft and parts from sales and use tax.
Meanwhile, in Kentucky a measure would exempt personal aircraft from local property taxation as well as the state's sales and use tax.
AOPA is working with legislators in Mississippi to extend a sales tax exemption on repairs and services to GA aircraft. The Senate had changed the bill to apply the tax exemption only to those aircraft used for foreign or interstate transportation. However, the House recently amended the measure to include GA aircraft.
Updated: March 17, 2006, 9:50 a.m. EST
