SPRINGFIELD, ILL. (WREX) � A new study by the Illinois Department of Transportation shows aviation's significant impact on the state's economy.
The study, announced by the Illinois Department of Transportation, says that airports in the Land of Lincoln give almost $100 billion and just under 500,000 jobs to the state's economy. The 2020 Illinois Aviation Economic Impact Analysis, according to IDOT, is the first report on the impact of aviation on the state's economy in almost a decade.
The results of the 2019 study of 81 public and four private airports in Illinois show nearly $36 billion of $95.5 billion was related to cargo shipment, $32.5 billion was income for the nearly 500,000 jobs, and over $21 billion came from visitor spending.
Omer Osman, Illinois Transportation Secretary, says Illinois' aviation industry is of great importance to IDOT.
"Aviation is a pillar of our state. Its importance to our economy cannot be overstated," Osman said. "Illinois airports serve as a gateway to the economy through passenger, cargo and general aviation services, as well as employment opportunities."
In early 2022, IDOT plans to release an Illinois Aviation System Plan, the first in over 20 years, to find near and long-term solutions to the needs of airports and the statewide system. The Rebuild Illinois program has dedicated $150 million to invest in the state's aviation system.
