Work

The fate of Akron-Canton Regional Airport following the dehubbing of Cleveland Hopkins International Airport and exodus of Southwest Airlines

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the regional consequences of airline network restructuring by examining the impact of United Airlines’ 2014 dehubbing of Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) on Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), a nearby regional airport in Northeast Ohio. While prior research has primarily focused on the direct impacts of dehubbing at hub airports, this study extends the analysis to secondary airports within the same regional network. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines exploratory data analysis, the Synthetic Control Method, and Causal Mediation Analysis, our results indicate that airport dehubbing can have a significant impact on the nearby regional airport. These findings highlight the interdependence of airports within multi-airport regions and emphasize the vulnerability of regional airports to upstream network decisions. The study offers practical insights for airport planners and policymakers aiming to enhance the resilience of regional airports in response to structural changes in the airline industry.

Source: Case Studies on Transport Policy

DOI: 10.1016/j.cstp.2025.101497

Authors: Sen Wang, Zhi Dou, Jiayu Liu, Yi Gao

Institutions: The Ohio State University, Purdue University West Lafayette, Purdue University System

Language: English

Topic: Aviation Industry Analysis and Trends

Subfield: General Economics, Econometrics and Finance

Field: Economics, Econometrics and Finance

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $1,950