Stark County Spotlight: Soaring to New Heights with Akron-Canton Airport

Hello, fellow Stark County enthusiasts! We're HDWERKS, your Northeast Ohio-based video production powerhouse, specializing in crafting compelling visual stories for B2B brands in advanced manufacturing, education, and beyond. From our home in Alliance, we've been capturing the heart of our region through our Stark County Spotlight series— a collection of videos and blogs that shine a light on the local gems driving our community's growth and vibrancy. Today, we're thrilled to turn the camera on the Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), a true regional powerhouse that's not just connecting us to the world but elevating Stark County's economy and spirit. As video storytellers, we've had the privilege of filming at CAK, capturing its dynamic energy, from bustling terminals to the thrill of takeoff. Join us as we explore why this airport is a standout star in our spotlight series.

Exterior video still of Akron-Canton Airport

A Brief History: From Humble Beginnings to Regional Hub

The Akron-Canton Airport's story is one of vision and collaboration, perfectly mirroring the innovative spirit we celebrate in Stark County. Established in 1946 as a joint venture between the cities of Akron and Canton, CAK started as a modest facility on 1,540 acres in Green, Ohio. It was born from the post-World War II aviation boom, initially serving as a commercial and general aviation airport with a focus on accessibility for Northeast Ohio.

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Over the decades, CAK evolved dramatically. In the 1950s and 60s, it expanded runways and added passenger services, attracting major carriers. The 1990s brought significant modernization, including a new terminal in 2006 that transformed it into a user-friendly gateway. Today, under the Akron-Canton Airport Authority, CAK generates over $300 million in annual economic impact and supports thousands of jobs in the region. It's a testament to local resilience—pre-COVID, passenger numbers peaked at over 900,000 in 2019, and after a dip during the pandemic, the airport is rebounding stronger than ever. At HDWERKS, we love stories like this; they're the kind of narratives we bring to life on screen, showing how local institutions fuel progress.

Recent video shoot at Akron-Canton Airport for Coastal Pet Products, Inc.

What Makes CAK a Traveler's Dream Today

In our video shoots at CAK, we've seen firsthand why it's branded as "A Better Way to Go." This isn't your typical mega-airport hassle—it's compact, convenient, and packed with amenities that make travel enjoyable. Served by four major airlines—Allegiant, American, Breeze, and United—CAK offers 24 nonstop flights to destinations like Las Vegas, Orlando, Charlotte, and Chicago, plus over 150 one-stop connections and nearly 100 international options via partners.

From a video production perspective, CAK's clean lines, natural light, and vibrant activity make it a dream location. It's visuals like these that highlight how CAK embodies Stark County's welcoming vibe.

Recent Developments: Growth on the Horizon

2025 has been a banner year for CAK, and as storytellers, we're excited about the momentum. Passenger traffic surged 10.6% in 2024 to about 760,000, with forecasts predicting over 900,000 in 2025—a return to pre-pandemic highs. This growth is fueled by strategic moves, including Breeze Airways establishing a new crew base at CAK in summer 2025, which has already boosted flight options and jobs.

The ticketing area was the perfect location for this Coastal Pet Products, Inc pet carrier video shoot.

In May 2025, the airport unveiled a bold three-year strategic plan aiming for 40 nonstop destinations by 2027, from Seattle to San Juan. Investments in parking expansions, terminal upgrades, and air service incentives are set to push annual passengers toward 1 million again. Cargo operations are thriving too, with over 231,000 tons handled in recent years, supporting local industries like manufacturing— a sector we at HDWERKS know well from our B2B clients.

These developments aren't just numbers; they're community wins. CAK's role in economic development aligns with our mission to showcase Stark County's innovators.

Click to view the Akron-Canton Airport spotlight.

Why CAK Deserves the Spotlight

In a world of crowded hubs, CAK stands out for its focus on people over profits. It's more than an airport; it's a gateway that keeps Stark County connected, whether for business trips, family vacations, or shipping goods. For us at HDWERKS, filming here reminds us of the power of local storytelling—capturing the smiles of arriving passengers or the hum of regional jets taking off into the sunset.

If you're in Stark County, next time you travel, choose CAK. And if you're inspired by this spotlight, check out our video series on hdwerks.com for more behind-the-scenes looks at regional treasures. Have a story idea or need video production that elevates your brand? Reach out—we'd love to collaborate!

Until next time, keep soaring, Stark County!

– The HDWERKS Team