WILLIAMSPORT – State Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23) joined officials from Lycoming Engines and area representatives to celebrate National Aviation Day on Thursday, August 19th.
“This Legislative Session, I again sponsored a Senate Resolution, SR 136, recognizing August 19 as National Aviation Day,” Sen. Yaw said. “I have the privilege of representing the home of Lycoming Engines, located in Williamsport, which power more than half of the world’s general aviation fleet, both rotary-wing and fixed-wing. Lycoming Engines is a top employer for our area residents. I applaud them on their commitment to the aviation industry, Lycoming County and their employees.”
Inspired by Charles Lindberg’s trans-Atlantic flight, Lycoming began developing aviation aircraft engines following years developing automobile engines in the early 1900s. Lycoming also provides engines for military training schools and other specialized applications.
Pennsylvania ranks 16th in the country in the number of public-use aviation facilities with 124 airports, heliports, and seaplane bases. The 124 public-use facilities provide an annual economic impact of $28.5 billion to the state. The aviation industry also supports more than 322,000 jobs making it one of the largest employment sectors in the state. Pennsylvania also supports the state’s 243 private-use airports and 280 private-use heliports.
National Aviation Day provides an annual opportunity to pay tribute to the individuals across Pennsylvania who have contributed so much to this industry. The holiday was established in 1939 by Franklin D. Roosevelt who issued a presidential proclamation designating the anniversary of Orville Wright’s birthday to be National Aviation Day.
For more state-related news and information, visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or on Facebook and Twitter @SenatorGeneYaw.
CONTACT: Nick Troutman, Chief of Staff (717) 787-3280