NATA welcomed FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford’s support for preserving Burke Lakefront Airport (BKL) and the aviation capacity it provides to Cleveland, Northeast Ohio, and the National Airspace System. Bedford emphasized the importance of maintaining airport capacity as aviation demand grows and emerging technologies introduce new users into the airspace.
Burke serves as an FAA-designated reliever airport supporting business aviation, medical transport, flight training, local employment, and regional connectivity. Its location and existing infrastructure also position it to accommodate emerging technologies, including advanced air mobility, and potential growth in regional air service.
“Administrator Bedford’s comments reinforce the importance of looking at Burke Lakefront Airport through the lens of both Cleveland’s future and the nation’s long-term aviation needs,” said NATA President and CEO Curt Castagna. “The opportunity now is to consider how Burke can continue to evolve, strengthen its value to the region, and meet future aviation needs.”
Bedford’s comments follow public efforts by Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb to close the airport for redevelopment, either by FAA or Congressional action, despite binding federal grant assurances.
NATA also supports statements from Senators Bernie Moreno (R-OH) and Jon Husted (R-OH) that decisions about Burke follow established FAA processes. As a federally obligated airport, BKL remains subject to grant assurances protecting public investment and providing stability for the private aviation businesses operating there.
NATA has worked alongside members and industry partners to communicate Burke’s importance to congressional offices, FAA leaders, local aviation businesses, and community stakeholders. The Association will remain engaged in advancing a future for BKL that preserves essential aviation capacity while expanding the airport’s value to Cleveland and the Northeast Ohio region.