By Penny Hamilton 
The Colorado Aviation Business Aviation Association (CABA) recently held its second annual “Aviation Saves Lives, Jobs, Economies and Communities” events at Centennial Airport.
A sold-out industry dinner of CABA members and guests, aviation-related business leaders, pilots, airport managers, political and media representatives, heard from top national aviation leaders.
Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (AOPA) President & CEO, Craig Fuller, (Pictured at right) was introduced to the packed TACAir hanger crowd at Centennial Airport by CABA Chairman, Reggie Arsenault. “General Aviation is a vital part of America. GA works hard to tell the story of these contributions. We know opinion leaders are favorable toward our message, especially GA Serves America which is our successful outreach campaign with Harrison Ford and Morgan Freeman,” said Fuller.
Pete Bunce, President & CEO of GAMA, followed Fuller on the platform and echoed the importance of that message. He focused on current technology and the future impact on aviation businesses. “Redesign of airspace can save fuel, reduce emissions and noise. Businesses as Jeppesen are making tablet technology readily available to the aviation community. The future products are phenomenal,” Aviation Legend Bunce shared with the group.
NBAA President & CEO, Ed Bolen, introduced by Brittany Davies, CABA Vice Chair, provided a national and international overview. “In the 21st Century we need to be proactive with our message of the importance of General and Business Aviation. We connect people and countries,” Bolen explained.
Commenting on the importance of the Colorado Gubernatorial Proclamation announcing June as General Aviation Appreciation Month, Bolen encouraged everyone to continue to share the important story of aviation jobs and technology. “We still have challenges but the future has wings,” he concluded.
Colorado is home to 75 public-use airports which serve 24,118 pilots and 8,074 general aviation aircraft. Colorado general aviation airports contribute $2.1 Billion to the state’s economy and sustains 22,650 jobs with a payroll of $750,000,000. Colorado is home to 40 charter flight companies, 69 repair stations, and 16 flight schools operating 141 aircraft and provides 212 jobs. Colorado general aviation plays a critical role in the state’s response to emergencies and natural disasters. Colorado aviation businesses and professionals do save lives, jobs, economies and communities. Learn more about CABA at www.mycaba.org
