The residents of Lucas County generally and Toledo specifically have a real sense of pride related to the area. This pride includes the local sports teams, the zoo, and our best-in-class Metroparks.
One particular institution that I have great pride for is the Eugene F. Kranz Toledo Express Airport. I have worked there for over 24 years and have seen many changes over the years.
Unfortunately, the airport is out of mind for most people since the airlines left the airport without daily service a few years ago. That said, what the airport lacks in traffic volume, it makes up for in variety.
The airport is in the Oak Openings region and is surrounded by forests, fields, and wetlands. Additionally, the aircraft that frequently visit the airport vary from Ohio Air National Guard F-16s to cargo jets, corporate turboprops, and training aircraft. The airport also has an active group of aircraft spotting enthusiasts.
Along with Jeff Hormann, I have been creating photographs from around the airport that will be used in a “zine” that I hope to publish within the next year.
The zine will include photographs highlighting the facilities, tenants, aircraft, plane spotters/photographers, and area surrounding the airport.
My goal is to showcase my pride for the airport and hope to bring attention to this important piece of infrastructure and the people that document its users.
