A resolution initiated by the New York Aviation Management Association asking Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 2012 as Aviation Appreciation Month in the State of New York recently passed both the New York State Senate and the Assembly.
The resolution was sponsored by Senator William Larkin and Assemblymember Donna Lupardo, Co-Chairs of the New York Legislative Aviation Caucus.
“The significance of aviation’s contribution to the state’s economy and workforce should be celebrated,” said Chad Nixon, president of NYAMA. “Our industry is responsible for over $50 billion in annual economic activity and employs nearly 400,000 state residents. This resolution appropriately recognizes the positive impacts of aviation on the lives of all New Yorkers.”
A host of governors from across the country have already issued proclamations recognizing the value of aviation in their states. Nearly 40 states in all have adopted similar measures, including Vermont, Massachusetts, Texas, and Florida.
The suggested resolution follows:
Resolution Memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to Proclaim May 2012 as Aviation Appreciation Month in the State of New York
WHEREAS, Airports and the aviation industry play a critical role in the lives of our citizens as well as in the economic prosperity of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, The Empire State is home to over 600 commercial, public and private airports and heliports, ranging from small rural facilities to New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport which is one of the busiest airports in the world; and
WHEREAS, The New York State Department of Transportation has demonstrated that the State’s aviation industry contributes a significant amount of economic benefit to the state: over $50 billion in annual economic activity; employs more than 394,500 state residents; and generates $18 billion in payroll and $4.5 billion in State and local tax revenue annually; and
WHEREAS, This contribution by the aviation sector of the State’s economic well-being is fueled by a vibrant and supportive aviation community consisting of airports, general aviation, commercial aviation, cargo transport, manufacturing partners, hospitality businesses, vendors and contractors, engineers and consultants, pilots, mechanics, educational institutions and other aviation organizations; and
WHEREAS, Organizations like the New York Aviation Management Association, the Alliance for Aviation Across America, National Business Aviation Association, National Association of State Aviation Officials, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and National Air Transportation Association recognize and promote the interests and importance of aviation in New York and throughout the world; and
WHEREAS, The State of New York 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; and
WHEREAS, Business aviation is a critical tool for companies in New York to improve efficiency, save money and open up opportunities for rural areas not served by commercial aviation thus bringing new business, investment and jobs to all areas of the state; and
WHEREAS, Many communities in New York depend heavily on their commercial service and general aviation airports for the continued flow of commerce, tourists and visitors to our state and are responsible for over 40 million enplanements per year; and
WHEREAS, Celebrations of aviation will take place during the month of May, including the annual 2012 Bethpage Air Show at Jones Beach State Park, hosted by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation (May 26-27); this year’s lineup will include the United States Navy Blue Angels and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, as well as some of the best military and civilian aerobatic performers; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 2012, as Aviation Appreciation Month in the State of New York.
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York.
