Cleveland Hopkins Finalizes New Airline Use and Lease Agreement, Strengthening Long-Term Partnerships

Cleveland, Ohio – July 20, 2026 – Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) has finalized a new eight-year Airline Use and Lease Agreement (AULA) that strengthens its long-term partnerships with signatory airline partners serving Northeast Ohio, retroactive to January 1, 2026. The agreement also includes one two-year renewal option.

As CLE prepares to advance major landside improvements through CLEvolution, the AULA reinforces the airport’s role as a key economic engine and critical transportation hub for Northeast Ohio. As a fully residual airport, CLE does not rely on local taxpayer dollars to fund its operations or capital improvement projects. Instead, costs are supported by airline revenue, tenant activity, ground transportation, and other non-aeronautical revenue streams.

"We are pleased to formalize this new agreement with our airline partners,” said Bryant L. Francis, C.M., Director of Port Control. “Their long-term commitment reflects confidence in CLE and the future of commercial airline service in Northeast Ohio. This partnership will be especially important as we move forward with major landside improvements through CLEvolution."

The airport is grateful for its signatory partners including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines, as well as cargo carriers FedEx and UPS.

In addition to signatory carriers, CLE also values strong partnerships with additional airlines serving the region, including Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, and Avelo Airlines.

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About Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) is Northeast Ohio’s gateway to the world, and Ohio’s busiest airport, serving more than 10 million passengers annually with 10 passenger airlines, more than 130 daily departures and nonstop service to more than 40 destinations.

Through CLEvolution, CLE is investing in a modernized airport experience that will better serve passengers, support future growth and strengthen Northeast Ohio’s connection to the world.