AKRON, Ohio — While the roar of planes over Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) echoes with the region's economic pulse, its leadership looks far beyond the horizon. A new three-year strategic plan, announced on May 28, 2025, promises not only to maintain the airport’s status as a favorite among travelers for convenience and low prices but also to elevate it to new heights. With new routes to Houston, Denver, and Atlanta, charging stations for electric aircraft, and plans to replace the outdated control tower, CAK positions itself as a regional leader in the changing aviation landscape. But in an era of airline mergers, supply delays, and federal changes, can this compact hub maintain its growth trajectory? For Akron and Canton, the answer is not just about flights but about economic revival.
Taking off with a solid foundation
Akron-Canton Airport, serving nearly 830,000 passengers annually, is an economic engine that, according to Kent State University, generates $1.15 billion for the region — a 13.8% increase compared to 2018. The previous strategic plan, completed in 2024, expanded the network to a record 24 non-stop destinations, modernized terminals, and upgraded Wi-Fi. "We have proven we can be better than the large hubs," says Ren Camu (Renée Camu), President and CEO of CAK, whose experience at Cleveland Hopkins adds confidence to his words.
The new plan for 2025–2028, developed after consultations with local leaders, focuses on six pillars: expanding air services, financial sustainability, safety, workforce development, innovation, and community engagement. "This isn't a five-year plan because aviation changes too quickly," Camu explains. "Three years is realistic." Notably, the airport is already negotiating routes to Houston, Denver, Atlanta, and even an additional Florida stop to bring back business travelers who disappeared after the pandemic.
Innovation on the runway
CAK is not just adding routes — it is preparing for the aviation of the future. Installing charging stations for electric aircraft is a bold step, aligning with the global shift toward sustainable aviation. "When major airlines merge, we say: we have the infrastructure you're looking for," Camu states, hinting at a competitive advantage in negotiations with carriers. Plans to replace the 1960s control tower, which requires a $65 million investment, and develop undeveloped land further demonstrate foresight. "This is not just an airport; it’s an economic asset for the region," adds Lisa Dalpiac, Vice President of Airline Development.
This summer, Breeze Airways is opening a crew base at CAK, creating 61 jobs with an annual payroll of $11.5 million. This is just one of the 5,000 jobs supported by the airport, contributing $330 million to regional income. "Breeze saw the demand for our services, and we are grateful for their trust in Akron," Camu says, recalling how JobsOhio and local partners helped attract the carrier in 2021.
Challenges on the horizon
However, the path to CAK’s ambitions is not free of turbulence. Airline mergers reduce competition, posing risks for regional airports. "When airlines merge, we lose leverage," admits Camu. Supply delays for planes for Allegiant, Breeze, United, and American, caused by issues with Boeing and Airbus, complicate expansion plans. Larger aircraft entering service require higher passenger volumes, pushing CAK to target travelers from Cleveland and even Pittsburgh.
Federal decisions also add uncertainty. The recent FAA decision to fund up to 2028 with $103 billion promises infrastructure investments, but an outdated passenger ticket tax system hampers modernization. "We depend on the FAA, but stable resources are needed," says a source in the CAK administration. Meanwhile, the airport is adjusting to the requirements of REAL ID, which take effect from May 7, 2025, and preparing for potential international routes if Breeze decides to expand its network.
Chicago as a regional connector
CAK, serving 30% of Akron’s passengers, 30% of Canton’s, and 18% of Cleveland’s, offers the lowest fares in the region — an average of $294 per ticket in Q4 2024, compared to $383 in Cleveland. Popular destinations include Chicago, where American Airlines operates 15 weekly flights, and United also offers connections. "Chicago is our bridge to business and tourism," says Dalpiac, alluding to plans to strengthen this route.
Local residents on X welcome CAK’s plans but express concerns about logistics. "New routes are great, but will the parking handle it?" writes a user from Green. Organizers assure that terminal and parking upgrades are a priority.
A look to the skies
For Akron and Canton, CAK is more than just an airport; it’s a symbol of resilience and ambition. Since 1948, when American and United began flights, the airport has grown from a military project into a hub connecting the region to the world. Today, with 24 non-stop destinations and plans for Houston, Denver, and Atlanta, CAK aims to bring back business travelers, who accounted for only 10% of passengers after the pandemic.
"We don’t aim to be the most luxurious," says Camu. "We want to be simple, clean, and accessible." This philosophy, backed by investments in electric aircraft and infrastructure, makes CAK a beacon for regional airports. As planes take off over Green’s green hills, Akron-Canton reminds us: in a changing world, the key to success is adaptation and faith in a shared future.
