A recently completed economic impact study shows that aviation is an important component in 
North Carolina’s economy. The state’s 72 publicly owned airports contribute nearly $26 billion to the state’s economy and supports more than 108,000 jobs. The contribution represents 6 percent of the state’s gross domestic product.
“Aviation and aerospace continue to be an integral part of North Carolina’s economic engine,” said N.C. Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation Director Richard Walls (Shown at right). “As our state continues its investment in aviation, aerospace companies continue to invest in North Carolina, with new manufacturing plants and technology.”
According to the report:
North Carolina airports support more than $4 billion in personal income for aviation-related jobs;
State and local governments received more than $770 million in sales, property, corporate and personal taxes due to airport activity; and local property tax related to airport activities is about $277 million.
The Division of Aviation commissioned the Institute for Transportation Research and Education (ITRE) at North Carolina State University to compile the 2012 Economic Contribution of Airports in North Carolina report on how aviation impacts the state’s economy. According to the report, the state’s 63 general aviation and nine commercial service airports provide a vital link to regional, national and international markets.
For more information regarding the report, contact Division of Aviation Deputy Director of Airports Bobby Walston at (919) 840-0112. For a copy of the 2012 report and/or brochure, visit www.ncdot.gov/aviation.
