A study conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers has determined that general aviation supports a total of 1,179,200 jobs and $246.8 billion in total economic output in the US. This report was welcomed by the study sponsors; the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), Aircraft Electronics Association (EAA), Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Helicopter Association International (HAI), National Air Transportation Association (NATA) and National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), supported by JETNET and Conklin & de Decker. Leaders of the associations expressed confidence in the study's portrayal of the expanding breadth and depth of the general aviation industry.

“As this important study reminds us, general aviation remains an essential and powerful contributor to our nation's economy, providing critical services to citizens, companies and communities across the country,” says NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen. “Hundreds of lawmakers at the federal, state and local level have recognised the industry's vital role in America's economy and transportation system, a role that will only grow more important as the industry continues to innovate and evolve in the years to come.”

“US economic growth and opportunity coming from the general aviation industry is increasing, and this trend will only accelerate as supersonic and electrically propelled business aircraft drive deeper into their development phases,” notes GAMA president and CEO Pete Bunce. “This study confirms that general aviation continues to have a very significant impact on the US economy. As an industry, we must continue to keep pace with innovation to improve safety and focus intently on workforce development by promoting the amazing career potential available to young people through general aviation.”

“As leaders in product innovation, the contributions to the US economy by AEA member companies are significant, and we are pleased to join our partners in general aviation to help share this story with policymakers at all levels,” adds AEA president and CEO Mike Adamson. “Equally important, though, is our members' continued development and installation of next-generation lifesaving technologies that will make flying even safer and more accessible while creating opportunities for future aviators and entrepreneurs.”

“General aviation continues to be a positive contributor to our nation's economy and benefits thousands of communities,” notes AOPA president and CEO Mark Baker. “We must also continue working together to inspire the next generation of pilots and aircraft technicians and recognise this uniquely American industry and its exceptional impact on our country.”

EEA CEO and chairman of the board Jack J Pelton adds: “This report confirms that general aviation is an economic powerhouse in America. More than the impressive numbers, however, general aviation represents the best of our country: Innovation, freedom and a continuing reach toward progress that is encompassed by individuals pursuing their own dreams of flight.”

“The vertical-lift and helicopter industry is in a dynamic transition right now, as we witness the growing potential for both new vertical-lift vehicles and remotely-piloted vehicles to meet demands for urban air mobility and delivery,” says HAI president and CEO James A Viola. “And while the future looks bright, this study provides reassurances of the strength and stability of the current helicopter industry.”

“Studies and industry collaborations like these are invaluable to our efforts to demonstrate to policymakers at the local, state and federal levels the impact of general aviation to communities. Our membership uses these tools nationwide to support initiatives that create workforce opportunities, build on responsible environmental stewardship, and grow commerce,” concludes NATA president and CEO Timothy Obitts.