WASHINGTON, DC, March 25, 2004 – Today, Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), said the general aviation industry was beginning to show signs of strength following one of the most challenging periods in aviation history. Bolen credited the accelerated depreciation rules included in last year’s tax bill with beginning a turnaround that is being evidenced by strong piston-engine airplane shipments, a shrinking used market, and a plethora of new airplane models entering service.

According to Bolen, general aviation is evolving rapidly and becoming an excellent option for growing number of travelers. “When you consider the wide range of general aviation aircraft available today and the innovative ownership and utilization options, such as fractional programs, “jet cards”, and the shared-ownership programs in the piston segment, you see an industry poised to meet the travel needs of a growing number of people and companies.”

Bolen was the featured speaker representing the general aviation industry at the 29th Annual FAA Aviation Forecast Conference held in Washington, DC. He presented as part of “The State of the Aviation Industry” panel that also included representatives from the commercial airlines, regional airlines, and airport community.