Cleveland Hopkins prepares for Santa’s annual stopover for a little R&R

Cleveland, December 23, 2011— Every year, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) staff roll out bales of hay, barrels of carrots, and plenty of cookies and milk for its annual visitors—Santa Claus and his reindeer. Santa stops over each Christmas Eve for a little rest and relaxation before finishing out the night of delivering presents. 

“We love this annual tradition of having Santa and his team stop by CLE to get their second wind before heading to the West Coast,” said Airport Director Ricky Smith. “According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Santa has already filed his flight plan so we are well prepared.” 

CLE officials expect a busy holiday travel season until January 3, 2011. CLE snow crews are prepared to keep the runways and taxiways cleared in the event of snow and freezing rain.

“We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday season, so we encourage folks to plan accordingly before heading to the airport—whether you are picking up family and friends or leaving town. Visit the Airport’s website for access to real-time flight information. We know for a fact Santa uses it,” said Smith.