A Lorain County Legacy: Honoring MRK Aviation at KLPR
Lorain County Regional Airport (KLPR) has been part of Northeast Ohio’s aviation story for over half a century. Built in the late 1960s to replace smaller, increasingly crowded airstrips in Lorain and Oberlin, the new airport officially opened in the early 1970s with a 5,000-foot paved runway, modern hangars, a terminal, and navigational aids. From day one, KLPR became the county’s aviation hub — a place where private pilots, corporate travelers, and student aviators could take to the skies.
From Grass Strips to a Regional Gateway
Before KLPR, the region relied on modest grass runways like Lorain City Airport and Oberlin’s small field. These were vital in their time, but residential growth and limited infrastructure made them unsustainable for the county’s growing aviation needs. The decision to build KLPR brought with it room to expand, modern facilities, and the ability to handle light jets, corporate flights, and air taxi services.
In its early years, KLPR also carried forward a strong tradition of flight training. Many local pilots earned their licenses here, continuing the legacy of instruction from Lorain’s earlier airports. By the late 1970s, KLPR had completely supplanted the older fields, firmly establishing itself as the area’s aviation centerpiece.
Growth, Challenges, and Community Connection
Over the decades, KLPR has seen its share of change. Ambitious runway extension plans in the 1980s and 1990s aimed to attract heavier cargo and commuter aircraft, but FAA funding requirements, market realities, and community concerns kept the expansion from moving forward. Instead, the airport focused on what it does best — serving general aviation, corporate travel, and specialized operations.
In the 2000s, major infrastructure upgrades brought the airport into the modern era. A runway rehabilitation, new airfield lighting, an Instrument Landing System (ILS) for all-weather capability, a wildlife perimeter fence, and an adjacent industrial park helped position KLPR as a true regional asset.
MRK Aviation: The Heartbeat of KLPR
A pivotal moment came in 2006 when MRK Aviation took over as KLPR’s fixed-base operator (FBO) and airport manager. Already active on-site since 2003, MRK brought full-service capabilities under one roof — AvFuel-brand fueling, on-demand charter brokerage, aircraft maintenance, avionics support, and pilot amenities.
MRK supports everything from business jets to medevac helicopters, working with MetroHealth Life Flight, corporate flight departments, and transient pilots. Their commitment extends beyond operations — MRK is a strong community partner, supporting events like Discover Aviation Day and creating a welcoming atmosphere for aviators and visitors alike.
Discover Aviation Center: Inspiring the Next Generation
Carrying on KLPR’s proud tradition of flight training and outreach, the Discover Aviation Center (DAC) is a nonprofit based right on the field that introduces people of all ages to the wonders of flight. Through youth programs, community events, and hands-on experiences, DAC sparks interest in aviation across generations. Their involvement in Discover Aviation Day — featuring aircraft displays, Young Eagles flights, and historic warbirds — has made the event a local favorite and an entry point for countless future aviators.
A Place for the Whole Aviation Community
KLPR’s tenant mix reflects its importance beyond just business flights. The Discover Aviation Center, EAA Chapter 1252, MetroHealth Life Flight, the Civil Air Patrol, and the Commemorative Air Force all operate here, hosting youth programs, safety seminars, and historical aircraft visits. Annual open houses like Discover Aviation Day bring the community together, offering everything from Young Eagles flights to vintage warbird tours.
Essco’s New Home
In April 2025, Essco Aircraft joined the KLPR family. From our office right on the field, we continue our mission of supplying high-quality aircraft manuals to pilots, mechanics, and aviation enthusiasts around the world. Being here means we’re immersed in the heartbeat of general aviation — sharing the ramp with business jets, training aircraft, medevac helicopters, and historic planes. It’s more than just an address; it’s a front-row seat to the daily life of a thriving regional airport.
Looking Ahead
Today, KLPR averages around 60 flights per day, 94% of them general aviation, and serves as a vital reliever for Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. With roughly 80–90 based aircraft, a strong tenant community, and a legacy of service, KLPR continues to be a point of pride for Lorain County. Future master plan updates and infrastructure grants will help ensure it stays ready for the decades ahead.
From its rural beginnings to its role today as a modern aviation hub, Lorain County Regional Airport stands as proof of what vision, community, and dedication can build. With MRK Aviation fueling the future, Discover Aviation & Zone Aviation training tomorrow’s pilots, and Essco Aircraft proudly calling KLPR home, the legacy of flight in Lorain County is in good hands.