Cleveland Airports Face Staffing Shortages as Expansion Ramps Up

Port Control has over 150 open jobs as it seeks a $195 million budget for 2026 modernization

Mar. 3, 2026 at 1:47am

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Cleveland's Port Control department, which runs Hopkins and Burke airports, is facing a staffing crisis with over 150 vacancies as it seeks a $195 million budget for its 2026 CLEvolution modernization project. Council members have pressed leaders on hiring, diversity, youth jobs, and other issues, while also hearing about new routes, accessibility programs, and a rebuilt RTA station by 2029.

Why it matters

The staffing shortages at Cleveland's airports come at a critical time as the city looks to expand and modernize its aviation infrastructure. Filling these open positions will be crucial to ensuring the airports can handle increased passenger traffic and provide quality service during the planned upgrades.

The details

Cleveland's Port Control department, which oversees Hopkins and Burke airports, is struggling to fill over 150 open positions as it seeks a $195 million budget for its 2026 CLEvolution modernization project. Council members have pressed leaders on hiring, diversity, youth jobs, and other issues related to the airport operations, while also hearing about plans for new routes, accessibility programs, and a rebuilt RTA station by 2029.

  • Cleveland's Port Control department is seeking a $195 million budget for its 2026 CLEvolution modernization project.
  • The rebuilt RTA station at the airport is expected to be completed by 2029.

The players

Port Control

The department that runs Cleveland's Hopkins and Burke airports.

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What’s next

Council members will continue to press Port Control leaders on addressing the staffing shortages and ensuring the airports are prepared for the upcoming modernization and expansion efforts.

The takeaway

The staffing crisis at Cleveland's airports highlights the challenges the city faces in maintaining and upgrading its aviation infrastructure as passenger traffic and demand for services continues to grow. Filling these critical positions will be crucial to the success of the planned CLEvolution project and ensuring a positive experience for travelers.