Cassie Kiser / CVG Airport / November 15, 2024Many travelers share a common thought: I will feel better once I get through the security line and find my gate.Some passengers traveling with disabilities, such as Dr. Kara Ayers, “just want to have the same worries that all the other frenzied air travelers do.”Dr. Kara Ayers is with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and is also associate director at the University of Cincinnati Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities. She is an expert in accessible travel, not only because of her professional and academic expertise, but also because she uses a wheelchair full-time and often travels through the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). Although Dr. Ayers is familiar with flying with a wheelchair, millions of Americans choose not to travel by air with their wheelchair because of historical inadequate practices. CVG Airport is committed to making flying more accessible for all. In spring 2024, [CVG hosted a virtual wheelchair accessibility panel](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9a8M9huLto) in partnership with the [University of Kentucky’s Human Development Institute](https://hdi.uky.edu/). The goal of the panel was to discuss opportunities for the advancement of accessibility in air travel and to inspire change across the aviation industry. Four full-time wheelchair users, including Dr. Ayers, shared their experiences of flying through CVG and throughout the world. The conversation was moderated by UK’s Jason Jones and was also attended by David Allgood from the Kentucky Center for Accessible Living and Paul Erway of Superior Van and Mobility. During the conversation, the panelists praised CVG’s accessible environment including the airport’s easy-to-navigate, wide hallways. The panelists also said they appreciated familiar faces of employees at CVG. L-R top row: Dr. Kara Ayers, Jason Jones\L-R bottom row: David Allgood, Paul ErwayThe panelists also highlighted improvements that could be considered across the aviation industry. The group spoke about misconceptions when they travel by air. For example, many times they have experienced being assigned an aisle seat on the plane due to the perception that it may be easier for them to transfer from their wheelchair to their assigned seat. Dr. Ayers shed light on how that is not always the easiest and preferred option. “Because I pre-board, that means that I'm already on the plane. I can't get up, so the person who is sitting in the window seat literally [has to] climb over me. For that reason, I would actually prefer a window seat because I can get in that just fine,” said Dr. Ayers. Jones said he often has an experience when a person incorrectly assumes he cannot make decisions for himself and asks questions to the person he is traveling with instead of directly speaking with him. He said another common frustration involves fellow travelers seeing people who are in wheelchairs and choosing not to speak to them because they are afraid of making a mistake. “Don’t miss out on developing a relationship with somebody because you’re scared that you’re going to do something wrong…at the end of the day, it’s about inclusion and making everybody feel like they're part of something,” said Jones. Each of these experts underscore the importance of others recognizing that a wheelchair is an extension of a disabled person’s body. It is critical for wheelchairs to be taken good care of by aviation workers. In addition, wheelchair users can take advantage of accessibility resources that CVG has made available. - CVG has a familiarization tour program that is available to all travelers who would like to receive first-hand experience of the airport journey before their trip, including navigating from ticketing counters on arrival through boarding at the gate. [Click here](https://www.cvgairport.com/business/cvg-tours/) to learn more and request such a tour.- All travelers can contact their airline in advance of travel to communicate specific needs and request accommodations. For wheelchair users, this is a good opportunity to discuss your device’s specific care instructions.- The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers personalized assistance during screening through the [TSA Cares program](https://www.tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares/disabilities-and-medical-conditions). [Contact TSA in advance](https://www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares) of travel to request this service. These panelists remain optimistic that air travel will continue to be transformed as new accessibility technologies are developed and as airports, airlines, government agencies, and advocacy groups continue to collaborate. Through continued communication, research, and advocacy, air travel will continue to be an equitable mode of transportation for all.All those who travel through CVG are invited to be a part of the conversation. If you have questions or ideas you’d like to share, please reach out to info@cvgairport.com.

November 13, 2024On November 13, 2024, CVG’s board announced that Lawrence J. Krauter, A.A.E., AICP, will succeed Candace McGraw as the airport’s CEO in 2025. Mr. Krauter is a 36-year veteran of the airport industry and currently serves as CEO of Spokane’s (Washington) Airport System, a role in which he has served since 2011.Get to know Larry a bit better and learn why airports and the aviation industry are his passion and life’s work by reading through these five Q&As. 1. Why did you choose a career in airport leadership?During my early childhood, my father traveled often for work, and I remember the excitement of being at the airport to see him off or to welcome him home. There was always so much activity, and the hustle and bustle of workers and passengers made a big impression on me that the airport was an important place. I was also able to fly with my dad from time to time on some of his trips, and I recall being brought up to the cockpit of an Eastern Airlines 727 to meet the flight crew and receive my plastic wings. When I was 11 years old, I announced that I would attend Ohio State University and major in aviation. I had always been interested in public service, as well as city and regional planning, so a career in airport management combined all of those passions. Airports are incredibly complex organizations that must be safe, efficient and financially viable. I have told people many times, in addition to being a leader, I am a serious public servant and a serious business person.2. What has been your proudest professional accomplishment?After 36 years serving in the industry, that is a difficult question to answer as there have been many of those moments! For me, it is about helping people to achieve their professional goals and to be the absolute best that they can be. That translates to the entire airport team being renowned for their abilities and for what we can deliver as a team. I am also proud of developing leaders in the airport management profession. This is followed closely by achieving substantial job creation and economic impact at the airports I have served. A job is the pathway to prosperity and a good life, and supporting regional economic development is something that I have excelled at and enjoy. Finally, I will add that I enjoy solving complex challenges, whether that is in terms of delivering world-class facilities and service or achieving legislative goals. The opportunity to work in such an intellectually demanding role and to be recognized as a leader in the airport management profession is very satisfying.3. What excites you most about the future of the aviation industry?Two things. Airport development is economic development, and aviation can serve as a catalyst for so much more investment in a region, as well as enabling new opportunities through achieving greater connectivity on a global basis. Airports are just at the beginning of being recognized and understood for the true businesses that they are as opposed to being thought of as utilities. ‘Airport Cities’ will continue to develop around innovative transportation and logistics solutions that are driven by airports and their business partners. The airports that achieve this faster will break into new levels of prosperity for their communities.The second thing that excites me are the people that make the vision happen and the excitement around recruiting top talent into the industry, retaining that talent, upskilling that talent, developing leaders and creating a team environment that allows growth and drives outsized results.4. Tell us a little about your family.I have a wonderful and supportive spouse, Robin, and we have been married for over 22 years. She is an accomplished insurance industry professional and an incredible mother to our daughter, Lauren, who is in her senior year at Cal Poly majoring in animal science with the goal to become a veterinarian. We also have an Australian Shepherd named Kalla and an Orange Tabby cat named Scotchy that we have been housing until Lauren reclaims her when she graduates.5. What do you like to do when not working?I enjoy reading, flying general aviation aircraft (I am a single-engine land and seaplane rated pilot) and perennial gardening (Robin is in charge of annuals!).

CVG Airport / Cassie Kiser / November 4, 2024Traveling doesn’t have to be an excuse to break your wellness routine, especially when fresh, fast, and nutritious options are available. CVG Airport has partnered with SAMBAZON® Açaí Bowls to bring nutrient-packed ingredients to travelers. The new location in [Concourse B near gate B19](https://www.cvgairport.com/map/?assetId=425) is one example of how CVG is elevating passengers’ dining choices by offering more quick-service and healthy food options.What is açaí?Açaí (“ah-sigh-EE”) is an Amazonian berry known for its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties, which are ideal before and after travel. SAMBAZON® açaí bowls have a frozen base made from the purple açaí berries. Fresh toppings are displayed on the counter; you can choose from bananas, mangoes, strawberries, blueberries, nuts, seeds, granola, coconut, and more. The CVG location also has warm oatmeal bowls, coffee, and grab-and-go beverages, such as SAMBAZON’s Amazon Energy™ drinks.Where does SAMBAZON® açaí come from?SAMBAZON® is the world’s first [certified fair trade and organic açaí company](https://www.sambazon.com/blogs/sustainability/palm-to-palm-our-commitment-to-fair-trade-acai). The berries are hand-harvested by local Amazonian farmers to protect the ecosystem. The berries are transported by riverboat and are processed at advanced, eco-friendly facilities.Why should CVG travelers consider trying SAMBAZON®?Açaí bowls and smoothies are ideal for travelers of all ages because they are healthy, portable, and convenient. The vitamins and antioxidants in the berries help you feel full and energized while also boosting your immune system. The SAMBAZON® food containers make it easy for passengers to take a meal onto their flight or to grab on the way to [Baggage Claim](https://www.cvgairport.com/accessibility/facility-access-info/).What other healthy food options are at CVG?CVG continues to feature and expand healthy food options available to travelers.- [Vino Volo](https://www.cvgairport.com/shop-dine-relax/?query=vino+volo+) in both concourses offers locally sourced salads from 80 Acres Farms. Salad kits from 80 Acres are also available in every retail shop at CVG. - [Farmer’s Fridge](https://www.cvgairport.com/shop-dine-relax/?query=Farmer%27s+Fridge) located in Ticketing and at the gates in both concourses offers fresh foods, such as Greek yogurt bowls, as well as a variety of salads and wraps.- [Subway](https://www.cvgairport.com/shop-dine-relax/?query=subway) in Concourse A and at the vending machine near Ground Transport West sells deli subs and sandwiches. - [Wendy’s](https://www.cvgairport.com/shop-dine-relax/?query=wendy) in Concourse B offers chili and grilled chicken.[Click here](https://www.cvgairport.com/map/?assetId=425) for a map and a short description of many more dining options available at CVG.If you’re interested in learning more about SAMBAZON®, [click here](https://www.sambazon.com/blogs/nutrition/is-acai-a-superfood).

Hey, look at that!For the past four years on the Jet with Jay blog, we’ve highlighted incredible destinations, flight deals, and how to travel better for less. In this edition we want to feature 10 things at CVG that you might not have known about! The folks at CVG continue to renovate, upgrade, and improve the amenities and travel experience at the airport so read on for more must-see items before you next fly out of CVG.1. CVG Airport Library near gate B12It sounds too good to be true, but you can grab a free book at the Airport Library, and you don’t even need a library card. Several local libraries (Kenton County Public Library, Boone County Public Library, Campbell County Public Library, and the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library) partnered with CVG to supply books to travelers. When you’re done with a book, you can return it to the Airport Library or to any of the participating libraries. If you have extra books around your house, you can donate them to the Airport Library or to any of the partner libraries. It’s a win-win! The library is open 24/7—the same hours as the airport.Welcome to your new favorite library!2. Escape Lounge near gate B21One of my favorite spots to relax before a flight is [The Escape Lounge](https://escapelounges.com/us/locations/cincinnati-northern-kentucky/) next to gate B21. The lounge offers delicious food options, tasty beverages, cozy workspaces and a relaxing environment. It’s open to the public; you don’t need to be a member of an airline loyalty program or credit card holder! However, it is free for American Express Platinum and Delta SkyMiles Reserve card holders. Tip: book at least 24 hours in advance and save $5.No membership or credit card points needed!Mimosas with new friends in The Escape Lounge3. Kids Play Area in Concourse B If you’re like our family and traveling with young kids, you know it’s always helpful to have some play time before a flight. (On a recent trip, my child was trying to run through the airport yelling “I’m burning off energy!”) CVG offers a Kids Play Area near the food court in Concourse B. The Concourse B Kids Play Area near the food court has soft surfaces and a very cool animal theme thanks to the folks at the Cincinnati Zoo. It’s a great place to bring bored kids before it’s time to board. Plus, there are a lot of windows that allow for great airplane viewing.4. Sensory Room in Concourse ACVG has a Sensory Room in Concourse A, which is designed to help travelers who are neurodivergent and need a place to recenter. Located on the way to gate A4, the Sensory Room offers a space for travelers to decompress and mute the hustle and bustle of the airport.5. Book ahead and eliminate stress by [reserving your parking spot ahead of time](https://parking.cvgairport.com/book/CVG/Parking?parkingCmd=collectParkingDetails)You can reserve a space in CVG ValuPark, CVG Economy Lot, and the CVG Terminal Garage. This is a popular feature that CVG added in 2024, so please note spaces are limited. Pro tip: check out CVG’s freshly-updated homepage to find out how many parking spaces are available at each option before leaving for the airport.Book ahead and eliminate stress!6. Healthy food options with local rootsI know it’s hard eating healthy at the airport, but CVG makes it easy! Plus, doesn’t it feel better knowing the food you’re eating is locally and freshly sourced? Here are some of the options you can try the next time you fly. Concourse A - 80 Acres salads at Vino Volo - Farmer’s Fridge vending machine Concourse B - Sambazon Acai Bowls - 80 Acres salads at Vino Volo- Farmer's Fridge vending machine7. Mamava PodsMy wife has been so impressed with the free Mamava Pods at CVG, and they were so helpful for her and our baby. They provide a clean, quiet, and private space for pumping or breastfeeding moms with extra room for a partner and luggage if needed. They also have AC and USB power for pumps and charging a phone/tablet before a flight. You’ll find one conveniently located near gate A4 and another near gate B12.“These are awesome!” - Mrs. Kruz8. Sunflower Lanyard ProgramSpeaking of traveling with families, the [CVG Sunflower Lanyard Program](https://www.cvgairport.com/accessibility/hidden-disabilities/) aims to make it easier for those traveling with hidden disabilities to navigate the airport experience. A special sunflower lanyard lets employees know that the traveler may need some extra assistance during their journey. The program is free, and lanyards can be found at the Information Booth in Baggage Claim. You can also call (859) 767-3230 or email info@cvgairport.com to have one mailed to you ahead of your next trip.A great way to ensure everyone has a great flight9. Interfaith Meditation RoomIf you’re looking for a quiet spot to pray or meditate, CVG has a special place for you. Open to people of all faiths, the Interfaith Meditation Room has a dedicated reading area, devotional material, and prayer rugs. There are also power outlets for charging your phone or tablet before your flight. You’ll find this space near gate B14.A welcoming place for all people.10. Arts in the AirportThanks to a partnership with [ArtsWave](https://www.artswave.org/), CVG invites local musicians to perform for travelers throughout the year. From jazz to folk, hip-hop to rock, and everything in between, you might just find yourself treated to a pop-up concert on the way to or from your next flight! In addition to live music, CVG also showcases prints of iconic ArtWorks murals through "Art On Board," bringing the vibrant art of the Cincinnati region right to the airport tram tunnels. Featuring 18 colorful murals, this display immerses travelers in the creative energy of the Queen City. [Learn more here.](https://www.cvgairport.com/terminal-information/art/art-on-board/)Spend a minute exploring your airport the next time you have a few extra minutes before your flight! Have a favorite spot at CVG you’d like to share? I’d love to hear about it at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), or [X (formerly Twitter).](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial) I’m always on the lookout for low fares. Visit Jay’s [Deals](https://jetwithjay.cvgairport.com/jays-deals/) page for the best fares to destinations around the world from CVG. -Jay

Cassie Kiser / CVG Airport / October 8, 2024CVG Airport is a special place where important moments in people’s lives unfold. It is where heartfelt reunions take place daily, but two 90-year-old women, who were once professional baseball players, were in a league of their own at CVG in early September.Mary Moore met her long-term friend, Lois Youngen, at CVG’s Baggage Claim after Youngen flew from Oregon to CVG. The duo was in town to attend the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) annual reunion that was held in Cincinnati this year. Moore was a second basewoman for the League and Youngen was a catcher. Mary Moore (left), Lois Youngen (right)Lois Youngen was 'practicing at CVG'Mary Moore and Lois Youngen had a ball at the airportAAGPBL was the forerunner of women’s professional sports in the United States. It began in 1943 during World War II while many male baseball players were fighting overseas. It provided an opportunity for women to competitively play baseball and build morale across the country.Photo credit: All American Girls Professional Baseball League | (L-R) Lois Youngen, Mary MooreThe League’s first reunion took place in 1982. At that time, more than 300 women from the organization attended. In 2024, less than 10 were able to join. The athletes said because of their age and health conditions, it’s more important than ever to gather in person.“We’re friends, but we belong to one organization and are so close that we all feel like family,” said Moore. “Any time we meet one of our other players, you will always see big smiles, big hugs, and just so much happiness.”Mary Moore and Lois Youngen shared a warm hug when they reunited at CVGAfter Moore and Youngen reunited at CVG, they met up with fellow players. The next day, the group of trailblazers attended a Cincinnati Reds’ game. They walked on the field and Youngen, who had been ‘practicing’ her skills at CVG, caught the first pitch of the game that was thrown by fellow player in the League, Katie Horstman. They were Fort Wayne Daisies teammates; Youngen was the catcher and Horstman was the pitcher.Photo credit: Cincinnati Reds |Katie Horstman throwing the first pitch to YoungenPhoto credit: Cincinnati Reds | (L-R) Mary Moore, Dolly Vanderlip Ozburn, Gloria McCloskey Rogers, Katie Horstman, Jeneane DesCombes Lesko, Lois YoungenThey also participated on a panel at the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum. The women discussed their experiences in the League and how it impacted their lives. The queens of baseball meeting in the Queen City, where the sport began, was a home run, and CVG was excited to play a small part in connecting these friends and teammates for a very special reunion.Get to know Mary MoorePhoto credit: All American Girls Professional Baseball LeagueMoore was a star player for the Springfield Sallies. In 1951, the second basewoman from Michigan led the team in games played (77), hits (75), total bases (96), home runs (3), runs scored (65), and RBIs (48) in 1951. She suffered a severe hand injury while working in a factory in the off-season and returned to the League for Battle Creek in 1952 before she then had a career-ending ankle injury. Today, Moore remains active. She’s on a bowling team and enjoys playing golf. [Read Moore’s full player profile](https://aagpbl.org/profiles/mary-moore-sis/161).Get to know Lois YoungenPhoto credit: All American Girls Professional Baseball LeagueYoungen, who is from Westfield Center, Ohio, played for a few different teams in the League but notably played for the Fort Wayne Daisies in 1952 under the management of Hall-of-Famer Jimmie Foxx. He was inspiration for the character of Jimmy Dugan in ‘A League of Their Own.’ In 1954, Youngen finished the year, the last year of the League, with .284 batting average. She earned a Ph.D. in 1971 and retired in 1996 from the University of Oregon as Director of Physical Activity and Recreation. [Read Youngen’s full player profile](https://aagpbl.org/profiles/lois-youngen/468).

8/16/2024Cassie Kiser / CVG Airport / August 2024Economic growth in the Cincinnati region is fueled by aviation-related economic development. CVG Airport – one of the world’s fastest growing cargo airports – joined its regional partners, REDI Cincinnati, BE NKY, and JobsOhio, on the world stage in participating in the Farnborough Airshow in July 2024. The global event took place just outside of London, England. In addition to promoting how CVG has helped spur tremendous growth for DHL Express and Amazon Air as [North America's sixth-largest cargo airport](https://www.cvgairport.com/business/business-opportunities/air-service/air-cargo/), the Airshow provided valuable opportunities to promote major developments underway at CVG, including [Hangar Row](https://www.cvgairport.com/business/business-opportunities/air-service/air-cargo/hangarrow/) and CVG [Global Logistics Park](https://www.cvgairport.com/business/business-opportunities/air-service/air-cargo/globallogisticspark/). These two projects are key components of the airport’s vision to create a self-sufficient aviation ecosystem.An environmental study is currently underway on the Hangar Row site, and this activity is quickly building the case for investment opportunities. The site covers 350 acres of prime airport real estate, with direct connections to taxiways and CVG’s longest runway. The vision of Hangar Row is to create a one-stop shop for any aircraft maintenance and manufacturing-related needs. “We want our partners to have the opportunity to acquire resources they need without leaving our campus,” said Rich Elwell, director of commercial management, CVG. “Hangar Row will complement the existing business operations at CVG, as well as future business partners.” Global Logistics Park also contributes to CVG’s plan of creating a self-sufficient aviation ecosystem. Freight forwarders and cargo operators will have direct access to aircraft ramps and multiple truck loading docks when this site is built out. In addition, the Park will diversify cargo operations at CVG because its supporting facilities and infrastructure will allow for businesses to ship high-value goods and large parcels that do not have time-sensitive delivery requirements as is often the case with express air cargo and e-commerce logistics fulfillment. “CVG is a critical element of the Cincinnati region, already supporting more than 49,000 direct and indirect jobs and a $9.3 billion annual economic impact,” said Simon Wood, director of air service development, CVG. “We are working quickly to fill Global Logistics Park, which will boost cargo efficiency at CVG.”Hangar Row and Global Logistics Park are new developments underway at CVG. The team that attended Farnborough continues conversations from the Airshow and welcomes the opportunity to connect. To learn more about these opportunities, [click here](https://www.cvgairport.com/business/business-opportunities/air-service/air-cargo/). Photo courtesy of REDI Cincinnati. Pictured from left to right: Kevin Donnelly, REDI; Rich Elwell, CVG; Kimm Lauterbach, REDI; Candace McGraw, CVG; Kimberly Rossetti, BE NKY; Simon Wood, CVG