Ohio University Airport (ATO)

Ohio University Airport (KUNI), also known by its IATA code ATO, located in Albany, Ohio (near Athens), operates primarily as a general aviation airport, serving the aviation-related initiatives of Ohio University and the local community. It does not handle commercial passenger flights in the traditional sense, meaning there are no typical traveler reviews regarding terminal facilities, security checkpoints, or customs/immigration for commercial airlines. For commercial air travel, individuals associated with Ohio University typically utilize the John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), which is approximately 75 miles (a 1.5-hour drive) from campus.

Ohio University Airport (KUNI/ATO) - General Aviation Overview:

• Purpose: The Gordon K. Bush Ohio University Airport (KUNI) provides safe, reliable, and efficient facilities and services primarily for the University's aviation programs and the general aviation needs of Athens County and surrounding areas. It supports over 54,000 annual aircraft operations.
• Facilities: KUNI features a 5,600-foot asphalt runway, hangars, and tiedowns, and offers fuel services (100LL and Jet-A+). It is noted for having the longest runway and most sophisticated approaches compared to other area airports.

Commercial Travel for Ohio University Community (via CMH):

• Transportation Connections: GoBus provides convenient and reliable bus service between the John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) and Ohio University's Athens campus, serving locations like Baker University Center and the Athens Community Center. University-run CATS Daily Campus Shuttles and CATS Late Night offer free on-campus transportation.
• Parking at CMH: Ohio University employees are eligible for a 25% discount parking rate at CMH through a preferred supplier, The Parking Spot.

Security Wait Times (General Information, not specific to KUNI as a commercial airport):

• While some sources provide security wait time estimates for "Ohio University Airport (ATO)" (e.g., 28 minutes for TSA Security and 8 minutes for Immigration), it is important to note that KUNI is a general aviation airport. These wait times may represent a general estimate for smaller airports or be aggregated data, and do not reflect the typical commercial passenger screening experience found at larger airports. Customs and immigration services are not typically offered at general aviation facilities like KUNI.

Common Complaints (Related to Ohio University, not KUNI as commercial airport):

• Limited Campus Parking: A significant complaint among students and residents is the scarcity of on-campus parking and strict city parking regulations in Athens. Parking spots sell out quickly, and city law prohibits vehicles from remaining parked in the same street spot for more than 24 hours, leading to potential tickets and towing.

In summary, the Ohio University Airport (KUNI/ATO) primarily serves general aviation needs and the university's aviation programs. For commercial travel, individuals connected to Ohio University rely on the John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), utilizing services like GoBus for transportation. The main challenge for students and visitors bringing cars to the area revolves around the limited and strictly enforced parking options in Athens itself.