Thoughts for Discussion during State Aviation Day
· General aviation employs over 11,000 people, has a payroll of over $363 million and an annual economic benefit of $1.1 billion to the state's economy.
· Aviation in Missouri employs over 149,500 people, has a payroll of $3.7 billion and provides an annual economic benefit of $9.5 billion to the state's economy.
· The State Aviation Trust Fund is a dedicated account with revenue generated from the sale of jet fuel and aviation gasoline within the state.
· The State Aviation Trust Fund is used for airport improvements, airfield pavement maintenance, safety programs, control tower operating assistance, airline service development and the installation of navigational and weather equipment on airports.
· Over the past three years, approximately 90 projects have been funded wholly or in part with State Aviation Trust Funds. The program is considered very successful by the aviation community and the users of the system.
· Due to current economic conditions, funding in the State Aviation Trust Fund in 2009 decreased approximately 50%.
· SB1000 proposes the transfer of approximately $2.3 million from the State Aviation Trust Fund. The transfer of funds will delay or cancel airport improvement and safety projects at Missouri airports.
When discussing SB1000 with your legislators, try to bring the above information home. What HAS happened at the airports in your legislator's district because of the monies in the Aviation Trust Fund. What WILL NOT happen to those same airports without the monies in the Aviation Trust Fund.