May 20, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.) – Today, Governor Jim Pillen proclaimed May as General Aviation Month in Nebraska, celebrating the significant contributions of aviation from its beginnings to the thriving industry it is today.
Since 1939, General Aviation has played an important role in our society. During World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Civilian Pilot Training Act, training 20,000 college students annually. He also established National Aviation Day to honor Orville Wright’s birthday, marking aviation’s growing significance.
The influence of aviation is as powerful today as ever. The United States boasts over 200,000 aircraft and 650,000 registered pilots, contributing a staggering $247 billion to the economy and supporting 1.2 million jobs.
Aviation is vital for disaster relief, humanitarian aid, law enforcement and agriculture. Nebraska is proud to be a part of this aviation legacy. Our state is home to 1,951 registered General Aviation aircraft and 4,639 licensed pilots. With 79 public-use airports and 164 private-use airfields, aviation is an important part of Nebraska’s infrastructure. According to a 2019 study, Nebraska’s airports generated $8.6 billion in economic impact annually, supporting 90,000 jobs.
As we celebrate General Aviation Month, we recognize and honor the profound contributions of aviation to our state and nation.