The GMAA provides a forum for the sharing of opinions and concerns of the industry, government, civic leaders and others with an interest in the past, current and future activities of aviation.
State of Florida Sales Tax Exemptions affecting South Florida Aviation

There is currently pending legislation that will do away with several tax exemptions which currently benefit a large percentage of our membership. We are pushing out this information to keep you informed about these changes and their possible effects on your business. These exemptions were originally created to stimulate economic development and draw business to our region. Due to the overall budget shortfalls facing our State this year, these stimulus items are being strongly considered for repeal. In fact, the process is well under way and we have very little time to submit any comments or economic studies defending the status quo.

If you would like to comment on these, or any other items affected by this bill, please compose and immediately submit your comments to your elected officials. If you will copy The Beacon Council, they will also use your information and comments to help drive a study on the overall economic impact of these changes. They are working on a daily basis with other concerned parties in Tallahassee to weigh in with real numbers and comments from our members on the expected impact of these changes. Our collective voice, when combined with the efforts of The Beacon Council will insure we are at least heard and taken seriously.

Please submit you comments to your elected officials and include The Beacon Council at the following contact information:

James C. Kohnstamm
The Beacon Council
(305) 579-1360
jckohnstamm@beaconcouncil.com

Attached are several documents for your review as well as this brief summary of items subject to review for repeal.


• Repeal of an exemption for taxes on aircraft repair and maintenance labor charges. This applies to aircraft with a maximum gross takeoff weight of over 15,000 lbs.
• Repeal of an exemption for taxes on equipment used in aircraft repair and maintenance.
• Repeal of an exemption for taxes on aircraft modifications that introduce a major change in type of design.
• Repeal of an exemption for taxes on the lease of aircraft
• Repeal of an exemption for taxes for the lease of airport property utilized for the loading and unloading of passengers or cargo.
• Repeal of an exemption for taxes on charges for aircraft modification or parts/equipment installed under an STC

Proposed Bill (PDF)

Sales Tax Exemptions being considered for elimination House Version (PDF)