Georgia Governor to lead U.S. State Delegation at Dubai Air Show 2009

Georgia, which ranks fourth among U.S. states in aviation sector exports to UAE, aims to attract foreign direct investments in the State from Middle East organisations. The delegation is expected to meet key aviation and allied industry representatives from the Middle East region during the show, in order to present the tremendous scope of growth that Georgia offers for various business sectors, especially aerospace.

Over 80,000 Georgians are employed in this high-tech, high-wage industry that continues to be a leading U.S. export. The state is home to more than 500 firms representing all facets of aerospace manufacturing; maintenance and overhaul; and electronics systems design, development, testing and support for customers and programs throughout the world. Boeing, Cessna, Gulfstream, Lockheed-Martin, Maule, Northrop-Grumman, Pratt & Whitney, Raytheon, Tiger, Thrush and Vought are just a few of the original equipment manufacturers (OEM) with major manufacturing operations in Georgia.

The UAE has traditionally been one of the key export markets for aerospace companies based in Georgia. The State of Georgia has registered an exponential increase in its exports to the UAE, from $4.3m in 2007 to $82m in 2008.

"The Dubai Air Show is one of the world's most established aerospace forums and its prominence has long exceeded the regional borders of the Middle East. Through our participation at this event we intend to showcase the high competency levels of the aviation companies based in Georgia, and introduce a vast global audience of decision makers to the state of Georgia's advantages as an international investment hub for the aerospace and aviation industries."

said Sonny Perdue, the 81st Governor of Georgia, an avid pilot and former captain with the United States Air Force.

Home to the world's busiest airport and fastest growing consumer port, the State of Georgia boasts one of the world's best commercial and industrial infrastructure, which includes industry chambers, trade organisations, and highly qualified work force. Georgia has also established a Centre of Innovation for Aerospace which is led by experienced industry professionals, and it takes a demand-driven approach to economic development and aerospace industry advocacy unique to the United States.

Participants at the State of Georgia's inaugural Dubai Air Show 2009 pavilion include L&G Technology Services, a military ground support equipment manufacturer with major presence across the GCC and Jordan; Magnolia Plastics Inc., a provider of high performance Epoxy systems for Aerospace and Defence industry; Polystone Creations Inc., manufacturer of high end molded countertops for business jets; and Jetaire Aerospace and Technology, an international supplier of avionics, airframes and rotables for Boeing and Airbus aircrafts.