A group of eight general aviation associations welcomed an updated study, conducted by PwC US Tax, detailing the robust contributions of general aviation to the U.S. economy. The study determined that general aviation supports a total 1,330,200 jobs and a total of $339.2 billion in total economic output in the United States.

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA), Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), National Air Transportation Association (NATA), National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and Vertical Aviation International (VAI) sponsored the study. Leaders of the associations were encouraged by the study’s depiction of the significant contribution that the general aviation industry has on the U.S. economy.

“We are proud to report that despite challenges that have plagued the entire aerospace industry since the beginning of the pandemic, the segment of the U.S. economy affected by general aviation grew over 150,000 jobs and an additional $92 billion in annual economic impact since last reported in 2020,” Pete Bunce, president and CEO of GAMA, said. “This growth takes place at a time when the importance of the societal benefits that general aviation brings to humankind around the globe cannot be overstated. From aerial firefighting, medical airlift, natural disaster response, law enforcement, agriculture protection, through drone vaccine delivery, general aviation is saving lives while our business aviation segment creates the corporate connectivity to allow companies the competitive advantage needed to create more jobs and promote economic growth. General aviation is the technology incubator for civil aviation – our evolution is spurring more sustainable propulsion systems, safety enhancing avionics capabilities, advanced material manufacturing, and improved maintenance, training and support. These amazing innovations all serve as a testament to the strength of our industry being propelled by the hardworking teams that are engineering, building, maintaining and servicing the aircraft of today and tomorrow.”

“This third report in just over a decade is further evidence that general aviation is a catalyst for local economies, a lifeline for rural communities, and essential to the makeup of American commerce,” Mike Adamson, president and CEO of AEA, said. “The economic contributions of this industry are profound, and the possibilities for the future are promising. As an industry dedicated to powering safer, more efficient flight, we are creating more high-tech and high-wage careers, innovating technologies, providing essential services and inspiring the next generation.”

“This report shows the growing impact of general aviation in every part of the U.S.,” Darren Pleasance, president and CEO of AOPA, said. “Since the last report in 2020, the number of people learning to fly has nearly doubled, proving once again that general aviation provides more value than ever to communities across the country. As an industry, we must do our part to continue to inspire and provide resources for future pilots, aircraft technicians, and others who want to work in this industry.”

“Those of us who are involved in general aviation see its contributions, vitality, and importance every day, but this information showcases this remarkable segment of our nation’s economy for everyone,” Jack J. Pelton, CEO and chairman of the board for the Experimental Aircraft Association, said. “General aviation is not only about economic growth, it is also about supporting communities and individuals as a unique element of personal freedom in America.”

“While general aviation’s contribution to the nation’s economy and transportation system is often overlooked, this study outlines the critical role it plays in connecting communities and providing job opportunities,” Greg Pecoraro, president and CEO of NASAO, said. “No matter where you live in America, general aviation and the airports that support it help move people, goods, and services that are an integral part of our lives. The vast majority of the nation’s airports were designed and built to support general aviation, and they continue to play an irreplaceable role in our aviation infrastructure.”

“This latest survey demonstrates the continued resiliency, growing innovation, and vast contributions of aeronautical service providers across the country,” Curt Castagna, president and CEO of NATA, said. “The professionals at FBOs, air charter operations, MROs, general aviation airports, flight training organizations, and advanced air mobility companies work tirelessly to ensure safe, efficient, and essential aviation services at all times and in any environment, while driving job creation and economic growth.”

“This study powerfully demonstrates general aviation’s essential and growing role in creating jobs, supporting economic activity, connecting communities and helping companies of all sizes succeed, nationally and in every state,” Ed Bolen, president and CEO of NBAA, said. “This authoritative report will be valuable in our industry’s work to educate policymakers and opinion leaders about the sector’s size and central role in the nation’s economy and transportation system.”

“As we saw with their critical role in the LA wildfires, helicopters are and will remain indispensable aircraft that protect communities and better people’s lives,” James Viola, president and CEO of Vertical Aviation International, formerly known as Helicopter Association International, said. “Today’s helicopters and the burgeoning advanced air mobility (AAM) VTOL fleet will only continue to enhance vertical aviation’s contributions to society and the global economy.”