General Binger stated that he was also very pleased because the event helped raise community awareness of Homestead Air Reserve Base. Chairman Moss, who sponsored the legislation to have an international commercial air show in Miami-Dade County, congratulated Vice-Chairman Jose "Pepe" Diaz, whom he appointed as the county's military liaison, for his hard work in the "Wings Over Homestead Air Show" event.

The resolution for an international commercial air show was sponsored by Chairman Dennis C. Moss and approved by the Board of County Commissioners on November 3, 2009

 "The international commercial air show would produce a positive economic impact in Miami-Dade County through direct and indirect job creation and earning of revenues by the various entities preparing, managing and servicing the event," said Chairman Moss. "There is no major commercial air show, which is a business/trade event that displays commercial, civil, and military aircraft and airspace technology existing in the United States, as all existing air shows here are primarily spectator events."  The aviation and aerospace industries are targeted industries in the county. The State of Florida has more than 660 aviation companies operating in this county that employ more than 13,000 workers.

"The aviation industry in Miami-Dade County is an important key economic driver and important source of jobs. It is one of the principal engines driving Miami-Dade County's economy and the thriving aviation industry in Miami International Airport (MIA), further explained Chairman Moss. "

Since the late 1990's, The Beacon Council has conducted business development missions to the Paris Air Show, often with representation from the Miami-Dade County Commission and the Miami-Dade County Aviation Department (MDAD). These efforts have led the Beacon Council to develop a strong working relationship with GIFAS (the French aerospace industries association) and Aerospace Industries Association (AIA). In 2008, the Beacon Council accepted an invitation from GIFAS to attend their 100th anniversary event in Paris, France. During this trip Mr. Louis Le Portz, Chairman, GIFAS, offered to invite representatives from Miami-Dade County to observe and learn from the planning process of the Paris Air Show; the Paris Air Show is held every other year (odd numbered years).

"After seeing the success of our recent air show at HARB, I am convinced now more than ever that having a commercial air show in Miami-Dade County will affirm Miami-Dade County as a major aviation center, while highlighting the local aviation industry and supporting local businesses, "stated Chairman Moss.

In June 2009, MDAD prepared an analysis of a "Paris-Type" commercial air show in Miami-Dade County. MDAD's analysis states that HARB has the capacity to host a major commercial air show and that the nearby Homestead Speedway provides adequate event parking.

As a result of the Chairman's resolution, on July 21, 2009, the Beacon Council came before the Miami-Dade County Commission to present the concept of establishing a commercial air show in Miami-Dade County.  The board had previously resolved to explore the feasibility of partnering with the HARB to stage an air show in Miami-Dade County pursuant to County resolution No. R-280-08 and this current resolution would further that endeavor. Per the approved resolution, Miami-Dade County's Office of Intergovernmental Affairs was directed to provide the necessary intergovernmental support at the federal and state levels to promote and obtain the necessary approvals and support for the international commercial air show in Miami-Dade County.

(L-R)  Col. Michael McCully, Commissioner Katy Sorenson, Vice-Chairman Diaz, General William Binger, and Chairman Moss

Photo Credit: Griselle Marino, Office of the Chair