ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is a statement by AIA President and CEO Marion Blakey on Ares 1-X Rocket Test Flight:

The successful launch of the Ares 1-X rocket this morning is the first human-rated launch system to be flight tested in nearly 30 years. It is an important milestone in the development of a new vehicle to take humans to space after the shuttle retires. We believe Americans want the United States to continue to be a leader in space exploration and will support the investment that the Review of U.S. Human Spaceflight Plans Committee says is necessary for America to explore beyond low-earth orbit. Economic growth, highly-skilled, well-paying jobs and a whole new generation of young people pursuing careers in science, technology engineering and math -- all critical to our national competitiveness -- result from our continued exploration of the heavens.

Founded in 1919, the Aerospace Industries Association represents the nation's leading manufacturers and suppliers of civil, military, and business aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial systems, space systems, aircraft engines, materiel, and related components, equipment services, and information technology.

SOURCE Aerospace Industries Association

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