"Georgia airports brings in billions"

Saturday, June 9, 2012

Georgia airports brings in billions 
By Matt Prichard
WFXL-TV Ch 31 (FOX), Albany (GA)


ALBANY, GA -- The Georgia Department of Transportation's Intermodal Division
recently completed a full economic impact study for the State's 104 public
airports.  Georgia's public-use airports serve not only as a mode of
transportation for citizens and businesses alike, but also as a source of
revenue to the state general fund, generating approximately $137 million in
aviation-related tax.

Georgia's public airports are essential to the State's transportation
infrastructure for citizens and businesses.  The 2011 Georgia Statewide
Airport Economic Impact Study analysis shows the State's airports support
more than 471,000 jobs with annual payroll of $17.8 billion, and total value
of goods, services and capital expenditures linked to aviation at more than
$62 billion each year, and, approximately $82 million in aviation-related
tax revenue going directly to the general fund.

"Investing in Georgia's airports has a high rate of return," said
Commissioner Keith Golden.  "We strive to maximize every dollar we receive
in this area to constantly improve our aviation facilities.  This study
shows the true economic impact our airports provide for citizens."

A survey of Georgia companies indicated access to an airport among the top
10 criteria for business location decisions.  The State of Georgia's annual
investment of approximately $2 million in airports is among the lowest of
any southeastern state, and far from the $20 million or more invested by the
top 10 states in the country on their aviation programs.  A short film
expressing the importance of airports from some of Georgia/s business and
community leaders was produced as a companion piece to the Economic Impact
Study.  The film, Georgia Airports Mean Business, and the Economic Impact
Study information are available here:
www.dot.ga.gov/localgovernment/intermodalprograms/aviation/.

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