Ohio University aligns airport operations with research and innovation strategy

Ohio University is moving forward in the transition in the management and oversight of the Gordon K. Bush Airport, positioning the airport as a central asset in the University’s research, innovation and economic development efforts.

Effective July 1, 2026, the airport will be under the management of the Division of Research and Creative Activity. Previously, the airport was part of the Division of Finance and Administration. The change will not affect the airport services offered to the general public.

The transition is being implemented as part of Ohio University’s Dynamic Strategy, which calls for aligning key infrastructure and emphasizing collaboration, innovation and regional impact. Aligning the airport with the Division of Research and Creative Activity will create new opportunities in aviation, advanced air mobility, workforce development and industry partnerships.

“This is fundamentally about innovation through aviation,” said Vice President for Research and Creative Activity Eric Muth. “We see the airport not simply as a facility, but as a platform for research, education, and external engagement that supports the University’s long-term strategic priorities.”

The Gordon K. Bush Ohio University Airport (KUNI) serves the general aviation needs of Athens County and portions of several counites in Southeastern Ohio.

With over 50 based aircraft and supporting over 99,000 annual aircraft operations, the Gordon K. Bush Ohio University Airport is one of the most important general aviation airports in Southeast Ohio. In addition, the airport has the longest runway and most sophisticated approaches when compared to other area airports in the region.

KUNI serves as a valuable resource for the University and regional aviation community. Through its fixed-based operations, the airport provides fueling, maintenance, hangar and tie-down rentals, and customer service while also supporting flight training and hands-on-learning opportunities for our students. These services are delivered by a dedicated team committed to safety and service excellence. 

This new strategic transition will build upon efforts to reimagine the role of the airport alongside Ohio University’s aviation training and avionics programs. 

“This transition allows us to think more holistically about how our aviation assets work together,” said Associate Vice President for Research Partnerships and Innovation Jason Jolley. “By aligning the airport with our research and partnerships portfolio, we are strengthening our ability to connect academic programs, industry needs and innovation-driven economic development.”

OHIO leaders and regional partners are studying how the airport can support emerging research opportunities in areas such as general aviation, advanced air mobility, aerospace innovation and related technologies.

In addition, OHIO leaders have engaged national aviation experts and industry partners to better understand the evolving landscape and identify strategic opportunities for growth that will benefit OHIO students preparing for careers, while also supporting economic development in the region.

OHIO officials also expressed appreciation for the leadership and stewardship that have guided the airport’s operations to date.

"We are grateful to Tia Hysell and the airport operations team for their unwavering dedication,” said Vice President for Finance and Administration David Moore. “Their leadership and sustained commitment have established a strong foundation for the University’s next phase of growth and alignment.”

Additional details about the transition will be shared with internal stakeholders and aviation partners in the coming weeks, with broader communications expected later this summer.