State's airports generate $137 million annually in tax revenue for Ga.

ATLANTA – The Georgia Department of Transportation’s Intermodal Division recently completed a full economic impact study for the state’s 104 public airports and found that they generate more $130 million in tax revenue for the state.

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.

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.

Among airports in the immediate Gainesville area, Lee Gilmer Memorial in Gainesville generates $13 million to the economy each year, according to the report. The airport employs 166 people, with an annual payroll of $3.6 million. Habersham County Airport in Cornelia generates $2.9 million to the region's economy. There are 38 people employed there and the annual payroll totals $772.000. (See link below for data on all the airports included in the study.

“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.

Link: Georgia DOT airport study