Burke Lakefront Airport (BKL) is critical to Zanesville Aviation, a charter and fixed-base operator based in Zanesville, OH, that operates highly specialized organ-transplant missions for Cleveland’s major hospital systems.

More than 60% of the company’s flights involve organ-transplant transportation, amounting to approximately 200 to 300 transplant missions each year. The company transports surgical teams for the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Medical Center and University Hospitals, and also delivers donated organs to and from locations across the country before returning to Cleveland.

Because hearts only remain viable for about six hours, and lungs for six to eight hours, Burke’s proximity to downtown Cleveland hospitals can make the difference between a life saved and a life lost.

Joel Downing, CEO and Director of Operations at Zanesville Aviation, argues that BKL’s value extends beyond convenience, particularly during Northeast Ohio’s challenging winters. He notes that fixed-wing aircraft operating from the airport can be de-iced and fly instrument approaches in conditions that would often ground medical transport helicopters. This establishes the airport as an essential component of the region’s medical infrastructure year-round.

Zanesville Aviation also uses Burke Lakefront Airport to transport clients for medical appointments, sporting events, business meetings and other needs.

“Everyone in the business of selling aircraft charter sells time, because time is everything,” Downing said, emphasizing that Burke’s location near downtown Cleveland provides a unique advantage that few cities can match.

Nick Crate, administrator at Zanesville Aviation, characterized BKL as a critical transportation gateway. To maximize the city’s economic and transportation impact, Cleveland should reduce barriers for businesses and visitors at the airport, rather than discourage the airport’s use with high fees.