OEA recognizes National Aviation Week

This week South Carolina celebrates “National Aviation Week” and the Oconee Economic Alliance applauds the contributions of the aviation and aerospace related industries in the Golden Corner. The South Carolina Aviation Association recognizes the importance of South Carolina’s aerospace and aircraft manufacturing and community airports throughout the state during the week of August 17-23, 2014. In 2013, Governor Nikki Haley proclaimed the first South Carolina Aviation Week after recognizing the value of aviation in the state. South Carolina has a total of 6 commercial service airports, 61 general aviation airports, and 4 military airfields. According to USA Today, South Carolina is the top Southern state in aerospace job growth. Jobs have increased by more than 600% in five years, from 865 employees to 5,685 employees. The South Carolina aerospace network is now comprised of more than 200 manufacturing and defense businesses and 23,000 jobs across the state. Locally, Oconee County is home to two successful aerospace industries: Just Aircraft, a light sport aircraft manufacturer, and RBC Aero Structures, an aerospace control rod manufacturer. There is one regional airport in Oconee County that has 75-based aircraft. The Oconee Economic Alliance salutes these industries for their tremendous impact in the county.