Aviation touches the lives of countless South Carolinians in ways that might surprise you. In honor of Aviation Week Aug. 17-23, the South Carolina Aviation Association and the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission will showcase the impact aviation has on the state, its people and the economy.

With more than 100 aerospace-related companies in South Carolina, aviation is a multi-billion-dollar industry and supports more than 70,000 jobs. Aviation and airports in the state contribute millions each year in tax benefits to state and local governments.

A seven-minute video will be released Friday, August 15 showcasing businesses across South Carolina that rely on aviation, both commercial service and general aviation airports, for the efficient transport of people and goods. Among those featured are the Medical University of South Carolina’s MEDUCARE, Columbia resident Tia Sumter, the Greenville County Sheriff’s Department, Charleston Florist and Landrum-based Pilots N Paws. The video will be distributed via Facebook and YouTube and aviation-related web sites.

Gov. Nikki Haley has recognized the week of Aug. 17-23 with a proclamation honoring the state’s six commercial service airports, 61 general aviation airports and four busy military airfields. All are essential underpinnings to South Carolina’s diversified business base, growing population and growing tourism industry.

Airports in South Carolina support recreational flying, provide a gateway to communities and tourist attractions, accommodate agricultural spraying, support air cargo and air freight shipments, help law enforcement, support the military and its operations, provide access in times of emergency and support medical needs and the medical profession.

Also during Aviation Week, the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission and the South Carolina Aviation Association will hold the third annual Aerospace Industry Dinner following the Inaugural South Carolina Aerospace Industry Conference from 7:00-9:00 pm at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.

For more details on the activities during Aviation Week around the state, contact Katie Koon at 877-359-7222. Visit scaaonline.com and the South Carolina Aviation Association Facebook page.