My first memories go back to the late 1980s, when I worked for National Car Rental in the old East and West Terminals. It was such a fun job, full of great friends and experiences. It’s amazing to look at the Airport today and think about how far it has come, from those two terminals to the beautiful, modern airport we know now. I’m proud to have witnessed so much of that evolution.

In 2012, the Airport became part of my work-life again when I was with the Buffalo Niagara Visitor Center, and we opened a satellite location. We greeted travelers, shared information about Buffalo and Niagara Falls, and sold local merchandise. That role connected me with so many wonderful people across the NFTA, the FMD team, and the airport’s administrative offices. Unfortunately, the center closed during the COVID pandemic, but those eight years were incredible. 

And then there was Mimosa. ❤️ In 2019, we joined the Airport’s Paws for Love Program with the SPCA, bringing therapy dogs in to comfort travelers. Watching people light up when they saw Mimosa, especially nervous flyers, was truly special.

Looking back, it means a lot to realize my airport memories stretch across so much of my life and career: from the East and West Terminals in the ’80s, to managing a busy Visitor Center, to walking through the Airport with Mimosa and brightening travelers’ days.

And now, working for the NFTA, I find myself at the Airport regularly again, only this time in a completely different role. It feels like life has come full circle.

For 100 years, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport has been part of countless journeys. It has certainly been part of mine, and I’m grateful for every chapter. Here’s to the memories made and the next 100 years!"

Denise Drews, NFTA Mail Clerk