But AUS is generating its demand organically by having SXSW, Grand Prix, ok weather, etc. that folks internationally are paying to fly to ATX and Austinites are paying to fly TATL destinations - even though it is hours further away from Europe.

CLE is having to pay airlines to add international service. Any international service. And prior service has dried up and either dropped or failed. And frankly, AUS as an airport is quite superior to CLE in all ways - especially for incoming visitors compared to all of the issues already discussed upthread. Example: AUS: two hotels on property + a gas station + more just off property + a terminal attached car rental facility + actual parking. CLE: well, y'all can fill in the comparative details (or lack thereof).

Sorry, not buying any parallels. And I'm not taking any subsidies.

David