What Is General Aviation in NJ and Why It Still Matters
Most people think of aviation as the big airlines flying in and out of major airports, but there’s an entire world of flying that keeps New Jersey’s economy moving in quieter, but equally powerful, ways. This is general aviation—and it’s more than private planes. It’s a network of businesses, jobs, and visitors that fuels local growth, supports regional industries, and connects communities.
Monmouth Executive Airport is proud to be part of that ecosystem as a privately owned, public-use airport in Wall Township, contributing not just to convenient air travel but also to economic vitality in the region.
In this article, we’ll break down what makes general aviation different from commercial aviation, why it’s still a vital industry in NJ, and how Monmouth Jet Center continues to support it.
General Aviation vs. Commercial Aviation: What Sets Them Apart
What is general aviation vs. commercial aviation, and how are they different? The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) defines general aviation (GA) as “all civil aviation operations other than scheduled air services and non-scheduled air transport operations for remuneration or hire.” A February 2025 report, highlighted by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), shows that the general aviation industry contributed a total of $339.2 billion to the U.S. total economic output in 2023.
Commercial aviation is highly regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and includes airlines, airports, aircraft operations, and air navigation services that move passengers and cargo for profit. The industry accounts for nearly 5% of U.S. GDP in 2023.
Understanding the General Aviation Industry and Its Purpose
General aviation refers to all civil aviation activities in the United States, excluding scheduled airline flights, which fall under commercial aviation. The industry provides essential services, connects rural areas, and is at the forefront of new technological development.
The GA category is broad and includes:
- Flight training
- Charter flight services
- Medical transport flights
- Aerial firefighting
- Natural disaster response
- Agricultural aviation
- Pipeline patrols
- Recreational flying
- Electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs) services.
Organizations such as the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) and Vertical Aviation International (VAI), previously the Helicopter Association International, are also included in the general aviation category.
Monmouth Executive Airport falls under the FAA’s definition of General Aviation Airports as it’s a public use airport “that do not have scheduled service or have less than 2,500 annual passenger boardings.” We are on the 2025-2029 National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS) list.
Types of General Aviation Aircraft You’ll Commonly See
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) reports that over 90% of civil aircraft registered in the United States are classified as general aviation, and more than 80% of pilots certified in the U.S. operate general aviation aircraft.
Monmouth Executive Airport is home to most types of general aviation aircraft used for business or personal travel. We provide airport, FBO, and hangar services to helicopters, piston aircraft, and large private jets. Our primary runway (7,371 ft) is longer than the commercial jet runways at LaGuardia Airport, and our secondary runway (3,512 ft) is ideal for all types of small aircraft.
How Air Taxi Services Support Local and Regional Travel With MJC
The air taxi concept is not a new one, as flying taxis were transporting passengers throughout California in the 1950s and 60s. The FAA is preparing for an Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) future, which includes electric air taxis. We look forward to the future but continue to provide our clients with the services they need today.
Private helicopter charter companies find Monmouth Executive Airport convenient for local and regional travel, as we are only a 20-minute helicopter ride from the center of Manhattan. We are also an excellent base for private jet charter services, as passengers can be in the Hamptons within 45 minutes or fly to Washington, D.C., in approximately 1.5 hours. Monmouth Jet Centre (MJC) at Monmouth Executive Airport is committed to providing professional FBO services, day or night.
Monmouth Executive Airport (BLM) is an attractive alternative to crowded New York City, Philadelphia, and Jersey Shore gateway airports. What is general aviation without the passionate commitment of airport owners? Contact us today for more information on the airport and our services. You can also visit us at: https://monmouthjetcenter.com/