Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue signs a proclamation naming October "Aviation Appreciation Month."
Aviation plays a major role in Georgia’s economic and transportation systems, with general aviation airports connecting rural areas of the state, and companies such as Gulfstream Aircraft, Cessna Aircraft Company, Lockheed Martin Aircraft, Delta Air Lines, and Robins Air Force Base employing thousands of residents. At the urging of Atlanta Aero Club President Steve Champness, Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue signed a proclamation Oct. 7 honoring aviation’s contributions to the state and naming the month “Aviation Appreciation Month.” AOPA Southeast Regional Representative Bob Minter was on hand for the signing at the governor’s office.
“Given our state’s geography, a great many businesses and communities depend upon General Aviation aircraft and small aircraft of all types for mobility, access to medical treatment, economic opportunity, disaster relief and a wide range of critical resources,” the proclamation states.
“Governor Perdue is a pilot and AOPA member who understands the importance of general aviation,” said AOPA President Craig Fuller. “At a time when GA faces more challenges at the state and national levels than ever before, we commend Governor Perdue for drawing attention to the value of general aviation and encourage other state leaders to do the same.”
Perdue explained that Georgia has supported aviation with programs to improve and develop airports across the state and allow the state to modernize its fleet of aircraft. While communicating the interest that the state has in the health of the aviation system, Purdue also highlighted the importance of working with AOPA, the Atlanta Aero Club, the National Business Aviation Association, and educational institutions.
“Georgia takes pride in its role as a leader in the field of aviation, which is a vital engine of growth in the economic framework of our state and beyond,” Perdue concluded. “Georgians are encouraged to utilize the many aviation resources in our state for business, travel or pleasure, as the health of our aviation industry helps to ensure our overall success.”
