McConnell helps CVG secure approval of application for program to enhance air cargo operations

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced Thursday that the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) approved the application by the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) for its Reimbursable Fee Program.

Sen. McConnell

By gaining this status, CVG will be able to enhance its air cargo operations giving the airport the ability to conduct increased 24/7 cargo operations at its facility.

CVG, which is the eighth largest cargo airport in North America, is one of three “Super Hubs” for DHL’s global shipping network, as well as the first U.S. airport to achieve SAFETY Act certification from the Department of Homeland Security. CVG will also receive a $1.4 billion dollar investment from Amazon, making it a worldwide air cargo hub for the company.

“Gaining Reimbursable Fee Program status will help CVG enhance its air cargo operations,” said Sen. McConnell, who contacted the CBP on behalf of his constituents. “I was pleased to work with CVG officials to help the airport secure this valuable status, which will lead to increased economic activity at the facility and provide an economic boost to Northern Kentucky and the region.”

McGraw

“We appreciate Sen. McConnell’s continuous support of the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport and its significant role in economic development and job growth in Kentucky,” said Candace S. McGraw, Chief Executive Officer of CVG. “The airport’s acceptance into Customs and Border Protection’s Reimbursable Fee Program is particularly timely and beneficial for cargo operators at our airport as their businesses continue to thrive, creating even more jobs and bolstering economic growth in the Commonwealth.”

As one of the fastest growing cargo airports in North America, CVG plays a vital economic role in Northern Kentucky, supporting more than 31,100 direct and indirect jobs and generating a total of $4.4 billion in economic impact for the area.

In 2016, Senator McConnell contacted Gil Kerlikowske, former Commissioner of CPB, on behalf of CVG. Also, earlier this year, he reached out to the Acting Commissioner, Kevin McAleenan, to reiterate his support of the application.