Pennsylvania's airport system contributed $23.6 billion to the state in 2010, according to the latest economic impact study by Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).

The study found that Pennsylvania's public-use airports support approximately 304,462 jobs, generate $9.2 million in annual payroll and produce $23.6 billion in annual economic activity.

At the time of the study, Pennsylvania's system of public airports was made up of 15 commercial service and 116 general aviation airports.

The combined commercial service airports generated more than $22.3billion for the local economy, while general aviation accounted for more than $1.3 billion, the report said.

Additionally, Philadelphia International Airport alone contributed more than $13.9 billion while Pittsburgh International Airport generated $5.6 billion for the economy.

As part of the study, approximately 1,000 Pennsylvania businesses were surveyed to measure the importance of certain factors when planning relocation or expansion.

Of these, 78% said having a commercial service airport nearby is an important factor in choosing a business location, while 54% said having a general aviation airport is important.

Barry Schoch, secretary of transportation for PennDOT, said: "This study proves that investments we're making in aviation in Pennsylvania are paying dividends for Pennsylvanians.

"Airport access stimulates businesses, supports five percent of the state's workforce and provides transportation options.

"When you consider that people, cargo, mail and many other goods pass through airports, it's no surprise that businesses say that airport access is essential to their bottom line."