The current economic crisis represents a timely opportunity to reiterate general aviation’s contribution to local revenues, which AOPA vice president for airport advocacy Bill Dunn did in addressing a Virginia forum.
The Virginia Department of Aviation’s session, Promoting Your Airport in Challenging Times, brought airport sponsors and pilots to Richmond’s Virginia Aviation Museum on March 28.
Dunn addressed the importance of strengthening advocacy through ties to legislators, airport directors, and community officials. Building relationships “before something happens” is key to advancing GA concerns, he said.
“It’s important to stay up to date on what’s happening, even more so in challenging economic times,” Dunn added. “It’s important for pilots and airport owners to show the community why airports are important to them. The event was a good opportunity to strategize on solutions and get feedback on issues that may be affecting their airports.”
Randy Burdette, the state’s director of aviation, told attendees about the department’s grant program for airport development and informed them how to apply for the grants.
