However, much of the relief granted by the CARES Act relief is due to expire, so NBAA has joined with a coalition of general aviation associations to advocate for additional targeted relief. These measures are important to the continued success of an industry that supports 1.2 million jobs, generates more than $247 billion in economic output and provides essential access to more than 5,000 communities in the U.S.
The groups also advocate for more robust funding of the country’s general aviation airports to enable them to meet their operational needs and provide relief to airport tenants, who are struggling to meet contractual and minimum annual guarantee requirements.
“Our nation’s airports are home to thousands of independent small businesses providing essential aeronautical services. Many of these airports have experienced declining traffic and business due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and relief is needed to support good high paying jobs, economic activity, and connectedness,” the industry groups said in their letter.
The coalition recognizes the benefits of excise tax relief under the CARES Act and urges lawmakers to protect the long-term future of the country’s aviation manufacturing, service and maintenance workers, who ensure the U.S. remains the most technologically advanced, safest and efficient aviation system in the world.