Colorado Recognizes Value of Aviation With New License Plate
The Colorado legislature has approved the creation of an aviation-themed license plate, which is expected to be available in September 2018.
“The Support Colorado Aviation License Plate will give Colorado aviation professionals, pilots and aviation enthusiasts a way to showcase their love and passion for aviation, while promoting the important role that aviation plays in the state economy,” said Chris Swathwood, a member of the Colorado Aviation Business Association (CABA) Board of Directors, who helped drive the effort.
“We felt the design really encompassed aviation in the state,” Swathwood added. “The runway for all aviation professionals in non-flying roles, then each aircraft helping to highlight a different aspect of aviation in the state and the pilots that fly them. “
The plate is sponsored by the Support Colorado Aviation Project, which is a collaboration of several state aviation groups, including CABA. Last fall, the petition for the plate exceeded the required 3,000 signatures, and was approved to move forward in the legislative process.
In Colorado, general aviation supports 265,700 jobs and a payroll of almost $11.2 billion. Additionally, Colorado boasts 74 public-use airports, serving 17,819 Colorado pilots and 5,483 general aviation aircraft. An estimated 1.8 million visitors arrive in Colorado on general aviation aircraft. Colorado aviation has a total economic impact of $32.2 billion to the state economy.
Centennial Airport, just outside of Denver, is the largest general aviation airport in the state and contributes $1.3 billion to the state’s economy annually.
“Any opportunity to advance aviation’s visibility in a positive manner is appreciated,” said Steve Hadley, NBAA’s Southwest regional representative and director of regional programs. “Aviation is a major economic driver in Colorado, and the recognition is well-deserved.”
The plate will be available to any Colorado resident with a registered vehicle in the state for a one-time fee of $50 – $25 to cover state fees, and $25 to cover the Highway User Tax Fund.
Learn more about the Colorado aviation license plate.
Learn more about the Colorado Aviation Business Association.
