When South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster proclaimed April 21-27, 2024, as South Carolina Aviation Week, the South Carolina Aviation Association (SCAA) partnered with the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission to put together a week of activities celebrating the state’s airports and aviation-related educational initiatives.
South Carolina has six commercial airports, 58 general aviation airports, and five military airfields.
According to the South Carolina Council on Competitiveness, every state dollar invested in airports generates a return of $3,000.
The state’s aviation industry supports more than 122,000 jobs with an estimated annual payroll of $4.8 billion. Annually, at least $16.3 billion in economic activity can be traced to aviation in South Carolina, officials noted.
“South Carolina’s airports are vital economic engines,” said SCAA President Kevin Howell.
To celebrate aviation in the state, activities started Saturday, April 20, with a youth aviation camp at Berkeley County Airport in Moncks Corner.
The week also featured the Charleston Airshow at Joint Base Charleston April 20-21, as well as a Pilot/ATC Forum at Greenville Downtown Airport.
Flight experiences on the B-29 Doc were available at several airports throughout the state.
Discovery flights for high school seniors were made available at Fairfield County Airport, while a Career Fair was held at Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport and Hilton Head Island Airport.
“Education and economic impact are at the core of Aviation Week,” said Fairfield County Airport Director Denise Bryan. “By introducing high schoolers to viable career options within our state, we strengthen the aviation industry alongside the state’s economy. There are numerous flight schools and educational institutions right here in South Carolina poised to train the next generation of pilots, aviation maintenance technicians, and skilled aircraft assemblers.”
On Thursday, April 25, the state held an “Aviation Career Signing Day” at Jim Hamilton LB Owens Airport, where 15 high school students signed certificates of intent to pursue careers in aviation.
Other activities included airport open houses, special aviation-related exhibits at museums, and more.
For more information: SCAAOnline.com