Wichita ? U.S. Rep. Mike Pompeo is using some of his campaign money to set up a website and online petition to promote the general aviation industry.

The Kansas Republican was joined by Wichita leaders at a news conference Wednesday announcing his “America Flies” website. Visitors can sign a petition showing their support of the industry and share stories of why aviation is important to them.

Dave Franson, executive director of the Wichita Aero Club, says Wichita has lost some 13,000 aviation jobs in recent years and he wants to turn around those losses.

Franson calls general aviation a lifeline for small towns. He says general aviation planes go to more than 5,000 airports, while commercial airlines only serve about 500 airports.