New Report Shows Cleveland Air Show’s $13.1 Million Impact Amid Renewed Debate Over Airport’s Future
CLEVELAND, OHIO — The Cleveland National Air Show delivered an economic impact of $13.1 million this year, according to a report from Enigma Research Corporation. The study highlighted the long-standing Labor Day weekend tradition as a vital driver of tourism and spending in Greater Cleveland, drawing spectators from across the country and around the world. With 57% of ticketed attendees coming from outside the area, and 39% of non-local visitors residing outside Ohio, the event reached a broad audience and reaffirmed its economic value to the region.
"The 2024 Air Show ticketing database included spectators from all 50 U.S. states and territories and 14 countries," said Kim Dell, executive director of the Cleveland National Air Show. Dell emphasized the reach and impact of the event, noting that Cleveland’s lakefront setting and Burke Lakefront Airport’s facilities made it a unique draw.
While the air show itself is contained within the airport, an additional $1 million in spending came from visitors watching from outside the event grounds. Approximately one-quarter of these spectators were from outside Cleveland, adding further value to the local economy. The event also supported the equivalent of 145 full-time jobs and generated $2.3 million in tax revenue, the report noted. An estimated $3.8 million of spending came from local residents, while 52% of non-local attendees expressed interest in returning to Cleveland for a future vacation based on their air show experience.
The report comes amid discussions about the future of Burke Lakefront Airport, where the Cleveland National Air Show has been hosted since 1964. Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb is weighing the benefits of repurposing Burke’s 245-acre lakefront property, which, they say, could provide up to $92 million in economic output annually if redeveloped. This redevelopment plan, outlined in two recent city-commissioned studies, explores turning Burke into a mixed-use area that includes green spaces, residential units, retail, and other amenities, potentially surpassing the airport’s current annual economic contribution of approximately $76.6 million.
For many, the potential redevelopment raises concerns about the air show’s future. Burke’s location is critical for the show, offering the necessary space and air traffic control for large aerial demonstrations. Cleveland Hopkins International and Cuyahoga County airports have been assessed as potential alternative venues, but neither offers the same combination of space, location, or infrastructure.
The historical and cultural significance of the air show further complicates the decision. The Cleveland National Air Show stems from the city’s deep aviation roots, originating from the Cleveland Air Races in the 1920s, widely regarded as the first organized air show. This event has attracted aviation enthusiasts for decades and has long been an important part of Cleveland’s identity, offering spectators a rare chance to experience aerial performances over Lake Erie.
The ongoing debate over the future of Burke Lakefront Airport has elicited mixed responses from Cleveland residents. Some support the prospect of developing more accessible lakefront spaces, while others prioritize retaining the economic benefits and historic legacy tied to the airport. Council President Blaine A. Griffin emphasized the importance of balancing economic opportunities with community needs, stating, “For decades, elected officials, businesses, and our residents have shared ideas about the best use of Burke and our lakefront.”
The upcoming 2025 Cleveland National Air Show, featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, is scheduled to run from August 30 to September 1 at Burke Lakefront Airport. For now, the event’s future at Burke remains uncertain as city officials and stakeholders weigh the economic, cultural, and logistical considerations surrounding the airport’s potential closure.
