Von Hagel named airport director
Cincinnati, Ohio native Karl Von Hagel will return to his home state to serve as director of The Ohio State University Airport. His first day on the job will be September 25.
Von Hagel joins Ohio State from the Cobb County Department of Transportation in Atlanta, Georgia, where he is currently deputy director. He previously served as manager of Cobb County International Airport for 28 years.
The Ohio State University Airport serves as a hub to regional industry members, a learning lab for future aviation professionals and a core facility for university research. In operation since 1942, it is one of the country’s top general aviation facilities.
As director of The Ohio State University Airport, Von Hagel will oversee both strategic development and day-to-day business operations. His responsibilities include ensuring that the airport is positioned to provide quality service to customers, tenants and other users. Organizationally, his charge extends from airfield operations to fixed-based operations, including the implementation of associated capital projects.
“Our airport is a unique asset, not only for the university, but also the growing central Ohio region,” said College of Engineering Dean Ayanna Howard. “Karl is joining us at the perfect time to navigate the airport’s dual mission as an outstanding educational environment and as a preferred general aviation facility.”
During his tenure, Cobb County International Airport’s annual economic impact to the community grew from $12 million to $132 million. His experience also includes time as manager of airport operations at Toledo Express Airport and as airport manager at Wexford County Airport in Cadillac, Michigan.
An Ohio State alumnus, Karl is eager to return to the Buckeye state and continue the airport’s positive trajectory. “I am honored and excited to begin my role as director of KOSU, one of the premiere university airports in the country,” he said. “I look forward to contributing to an organization that is shaping the future of aviation.”
Von Hagel is an Accredited Airport Executive and commercial-rated instrument pilot. He earned his bachelor’s degree in transportation aviation from Ohio State in 1987 and began his aviation career working in the Ohio State Airport’s fixed-based operator facility.
