Ohio University Airport – ATO Athens
Ohio University Airport is often referred to as Gordon K. Bush Airport (ATO) and is also sometimes called Synder Field. This public airport is located in Albany, which is 10 miles from Athens County, Ohio. ATO is owned by Ohio University, which is entirely a separate entity from Ohio State University located in Columbus, which owns Ohio State University Airport (OSU).
Best Time to Visit
The Rowland Family formerly owned the first airport in Athens County until 1943 when Ohio University took over. During that time, the airport was used as civilian aviation and also became the base for the university’s flying program. The airport’s location was eventually moved to a new site. ATO finally opened in 1972 with a runway and a few hangars. The airport was named in honor of Gordon K. Bush, one of the university’s trustees. When ATO airport was renovated, it gained a new terminal as well as a runway extension to accommodate bigger aircrafts. This airport serves the cities of Athens, Logan, and Murray City among many others.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Getting in and out of Athens County may be convenient for many travelers. However, there are no hotels near the airport. Visitors will have to book their lodging a couple of miles away from Ohio University Airport. The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Athens has rave reviews from guests and is located less than 12 miles or an 18-minute drive away from ATO. This casual two-star hotel is a good starting point for visitors traveling to Athens County. The Hampton Inn Athens is also an excellent choice and is only a 19-minute drive from the airport.