Speaker Craig Coughlin (D-Middlesex) has tapped Assemblyman Daniel Benson (D-Mercer, Middlesex) to serve on the newly created Public Use Airports Task Force that will evaluate New Jersey’s public airports and the development of the aviation and aerospace industries.
The task force will make recommendations for the advancement of public use airports, flight training, and the aviation and aerospace industries. It was created under legislation (A-4377) signed into law in January.
“We’ve heard concerns that too many of New Jersey’s 43 licensed public use aviation facilities and heliports are deteriorating. These airports are a critical part of the broader air industry economy, and where many pilots and mechanics begin their careers,” said Benson, who chairs the Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee. “At a time when we are seeing a shortage of aviation professionals, maintaining local airports is absolutely essential. We are a State that prioritizes economic growth and tourism, and we will not sit idly by if there are signs the aviation industry is in trouble. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the task force to find ways to help aviation thrive in the Garden State.”
Additionally, the task force will submit a report of its findings to the Governor and Legislature no later than 12 months after organization.