FAA and Ohio Senators Firmly Oppose Closure of Burke Lakefront Airport
A major showdown is brewing over the fate of Burke Lakefront Airport (KBKL) in Cleveland, Ohio. Federal officials, including FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford, have voiced their staunch opposition to the proposed closure of the popular lakefront general aviation facility. They stand united with Ohio’s two Republican U.S. senators, Bernie Moreno and Jon Husted, in opposing Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb’s plans to shutter and redevelop the 450-acre airport site.
During a visit to an FAA air traffic control facility in Oberlin, Ohio on August 14, Bedford stated unequivocally that the FAA is “against closing airports across the country.” He emphasized that the U.S. needs more, not less, airspace capacity, especially with the increasing prevalence of drones and electric air taxis. Senator Moreno echoed this sentiment, stating emphatically, “There is no scenario in which Burke Lakefront Airport would be closed.”
Several aviation organizations, including the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), AOPA, and the Lakefront Airport Preservation Partnership (LAPP), have rallied in support of keeping KBKL open. A study by the Ohio Department of Transportation revealed that the airport generates $195 million in annual economic activity and supports 664 jobs. Despite this strong federal and industry opposition, Mayor Bibb’s office remains committed to its redevelopment plans, setting the stage for a protracted battle.
Source: General Aviation News – FAA, Senators Join Fight for KBKL