Author: Natalie Baker
2026 DLH Rates and Charges
Duluth Airport Authority Receives Over $20 Million in Federal Grant Award for Air Traffic Control Tower Replacement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 17, 2025
PRESS CONTACT
Duluth Airport Authority
Natalie Baker, Director of Communications and Marketing
(218) 625-7768
nbaker@duluthairport.com
Duluth Airport Authority Receives Over $20 Million in Federal Grant Award for Air Traffic Control Tower Replacement
Duluth, MN – November 17, 2025 – The Duluth Airport Authority (DAA) is pleased to announce the receipt of $20,250,968.00 in additional federal grant funding to support the construction of a new Air Traffic Control Tower, located at Duluth International Airport (DLH).
“With the continued growth of air travel and growing aviation cluster at DLH, investing in infrastructure that supports aviation in our region is more important than ever,” said Tom Werner, Executive Director of the Duluth Airport Authority. “We are thankful to the Federal Aviation Administration and our Congressional Delegation for their steadfast commitment to securing this essential funding for this shovel ready project.”
This additional funding was awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Terminal Program (ATP), a competitive grant program established through the IIJA. This program provides a federal funding source for locally owned Air Traffic Control Towers, like the one at DLH.
“Duluth International Airport’s air traffic control tower is one of the oldest in the country and urgently needs an upgrade, which is why I have worked across the aisle to secure this funding,” said Klobuchar. “The Duluth Airport is a gateway for visitors from around the country and the world to visit Duluth, and is critical to the Northland’s economy. With this major federal investment, Duluth International Airport will be able to continue the vital work of relocating this tower, which will boost efficiency to help travelers arrive and depart on time.”
The DAA will continue working with both federal and state officials to secure the remaining funding to move this critical project into the construction phase.
“The Duluth International Airport provides critical service to northern Minnesota, from commercial service to cargo, military and medical flights. Yet it’s operating with a 70-year-old tower – the third oldest in the nation. It’s out of date, doesn’t meet national standards, and has needed replacing for a long time,” said Senator Tina Smith. “Air traffic controllers have been doing a tremendous job making the outdated tower work and keeping our skies safe, but funding a new tower will make air travel in the Northland safer and more efficient. I’m glad to see this announcement, and I’ll keep pushing for the rest of the funding necessary to get the new tower built.”
This critical infrastructure project is essential for enhancing aviation safety, improving operational efficiency, and supporting the regions continued economic growth.
“The Duluth International Airport connects the Northland to the rest of the world, making it an important economic driver for our region. Since arriving in Congress, I have worked to secure the funding necessary to replace this aging tower, not just to ensure safety, but also to strengthen the long-term competitiveness of our airport,” said Representative Stauber. “I’m proud to have worked closely with Secretary Duffy to deliver this significant investment, and I’m grateful to the Trump Administration for recognizing the importance of this project for Minnesota’s Eighth District.”
With full funding, the Duluth Airport Authority anticipates breaking ground on the new tower as early as next year. The project is expected to support hundreds of construction jobs and ensure safe and efficient air travel in the Northland for years to come.
About the Duluth International Airport
Starting June 1, United Airlines will offer four daily nonstop flights to Chicago and Delta offers four daily nonstop flights to Minneapolis/St. Paul. We are committed to providing our travelers with superior services in a safe, secure and professional environment. Be sure to visit our Club DLH Business Suite, designed with the working traveler in mind. Visit duluthairport.com, and like us on facebook.com/duluthairport.
Sun Country Airlines Suspends Seasonal Service Between Duluth and Fort Myers Florida for Winter 2025-2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 8, 2025
PRESS CONTACT
Duluth Airport Authority
Natalie Baker, Director of Communications and Marketing
(218) 625-7768
nbaker@duluthairport.com
Sun Country Airlines Suspends Seasonal Service Between Duluth and Fort Myers Florida for Winter 2025-2026
Duluth, MN – October 8, 2025 – Sun Country Airlines has confirmed that it will not be returning to DLH with service to RSW this winter season. The airline, known for its low-cost leisure travel offerings, had previously offered seasonal service to Fort Myers, Florida.
“While we are disappointed that Sun Country will not be returning to Duluth International Airport, we understand that airline route decisions are driven by complex business considerations,” said Tom Werner, Executive Director of the Duluth Airport Authority. “Sun Country has been a valued partner, and we appreciate the service they’ve provided over the past few winter seasons. We hope they will be back in the future.”
The Duluth Airport Authority will continue to engage with current and potential future airline partners, to advocate for expanded air service opportunities for the region.
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About the Duluth International Airport
Currently, United Airlines offers four daily nonstop flights to Chicago and Delta offers four daily nonstop flights to Minneapolis/St. Paul. We are committed to providing our travelers with superior services in a safe, secure and professional environment. Be sure to visit our Club DLH Business Suite, designed with the working traveler in mind. Visit duluthairport.com, and like us on facebook.com/duluthairport.
Global Entry Interview Event Coming to Duluth International Airport on September 25th
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 18, 2025
PRESS CONTACT
Duluth Airport Authority
Natalie Baker, Director of Communications and Marketing
(218) 625-7768
nbaker@duluthairport.com
Global Entry Interview Event Coming to Duluth International Airport on September 25th
DULUTH, MN – The Duluth Airport Authority, in partnership with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, is pleased to be hosting a one-day Global Entry Enrollment Interview Event on Thursday, September 25, 2025.
This event offers conditionally approved Global Entry applicants the opportunity to complete their in-person interviews locally at DLH. Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Membership also includes TSA PreCheck benefits.
Applicants must first apply online at https://ttp.dhs.gov/ and receive conditional approval. Once they receive this approval, applicants can schedule an interview at the DLH event. Appointments are limited.
“We are excited to host this event at DLH and make it more convenient for travelers in the Northland to complete their Global Entry enrollment process,” said Natalie Baker, Director of Communications and Marketing for the Duluth Airport Authority.
For more information about the Global Entry program, visit: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry.
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About the Duluth International Airport
Starting June 1, United Airlines will offer four daily nonstop flights to Chicago and Delta offers four daily nonstop flights to Minneapolis/St. Paul. We are committed to providing our travelers with superior services in a safe, secure and professional environment. Be sure to visit our Club DLH Business Suite, designed with the working traveler in mind. Visit duluthairport.com, follow us on X @DuluthAirport, and like us on facebook.com/duluthairport.
State Legislature Awards $10 Million for Duluth Airport Authority Air Traffic Control Tower Project
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 11, 2025
PRESS CONTACT
Duluth Airport Authority
Natalie Baker, Director of Communications and Marketing
(218) 625-7768
nbaker@duluthairport.com
State Legislature Awards $10 Million for Duluth Airport Authority Air Traffic Control Tower Project
Duluth, MN – The Duluth Airport Authority (DAA) is pleased to announce the State of Minnesota has approved a $10 million cash allocation during the 2025 legislative session to support the replacement of the Air Traffic Control Tower located at DLH. This marks a major milestone in securing funding essential to strengthening the region’s aviation infrastructure.
The funding, which was included as a part of the state’s Transportation Bill, provides critical support for the replacement of the aging air traffic control tower at DLH. The current facility no longer meets the operational and safety standards required by today’s aviation environment.
“This allocation is a tremendous win for Duluth and the entire region. A modern facility is essential to maintaining safe and efficient operations, and to supporting the airports role as a hub for passenger, cargo, and military flight operations.” said Tom Werner, Executive Director of the Duluth Airport Authority. “We are incredibly grateful for the partnership and leadership shown by our state legislators in both the House and Senate, in recognizing the urgent need for this project and championing this funding at the Capitol.”
The $10 million cash allocation will be split between 2026 and 2027, receiving $5 million each year. This award brings the total amount of funding secured for this $72 million project, to $33.2 million from both state and federal funding sources. The DAA will be submitting additional funding applications in the coming months to achieve full funding for this project.
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About the Duluth International Airport
Starting June 1, United Airlines will offer four daily nonstop flights to Chicago and Delta offers four daily nonstop flights to Minneapolis/St. Paul. We are committed to providing our travelers with superior services in a safe, secure and professional environment. Be sure to visit our Club DLH Business Suite, designed with the working traveler in mind. Visit duluthairport.com, follow us on X @DuluthAirport, and like us on facebook.com/duluthairport.
New Study Shows Duluth International Airport Contributes $1.4B to State Economy
PRESS CONTACT
Duluth Airport Authority
Natalie Baker, Director of Communication and Marketing
(218) 625-7768
nbaker@duluthairport.com
New Study Shows Duluth International Airport Contributes $1.4B to State Economy
Duluth, MN: The Duluth Airport Authority is pleased to share results from a recently-completed economic impact analysis of the Duluth International Airport’s (DLH) impact on Minnesota. The study concluded that business activity at DLH supports over 4,000 full-time jobs annually, contributing $284.8 million in labor income and $1.4 billion in output to the state’s economy.
“DLH is an essential economic driver in the Arrowhead region. DLH and our business tenants provide valuable services and connect our communities to the world,” said Tom Werner, Duluth Airport Authority Executive Director. “As the Duluth Airport Authority pursues additional capital investments, it is important that we understand the lasting and far-reaching impact of the airport and businesses that operate at DLH. This economic impact study shows our positive impact on the region and beyond.”
Measuring DLH’s Impact
The Duluth Airport Authority commissioned the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Minnesota Duluth’s Labovitz School of Business and Economics to evaluate DLH’s impact in terms of airport management, on-airport business tenants, capital investments, and visitor spending via commercial and general aviation. The research team used the IMPLAN input-output modeling data and software to model economic impacts.
As Minnesota’s second-busiest commercial airport, DLH plays a critical role in generating local employment by supporting regional aviation activity, joint civil-military operations, and all aviation-related businesses located at the airport. DLH airport activities in 2024, including general aviation and commercial visitors, had lasting impacts, including:
- 3,000+ jobs supported
- $208+ million contributed to the state’s economy
- $1.2 billion in annual spending from DLH operations, its business tenants, and visitors
- For every $1 spent by the airport, another $0.20 was spent by area households and supporting industries
Additionally, indirect and induced impacts from DLH operations contributed:
- 943 additional jobs in supporting industries
- $76.8 million in labor income
- $233.9 million in output to the state’s economy
Planning for DLH’s Future
The DAA has several capital improvement projects planned for DLH in the coming years, with funding from state, federal, airport, and private investments. Over the next five years, the airport plans to spend nearly $150 million on capital improvement projects, including:
- Replacing the air traffic control tower
- Building new hangars
- Reconstructing the primary parallel taxiway.
Investments at DLH will average nearly $30 million per year until 2029 and will support 317 jobs, $24.7 million in labor income, and $61.1 million in output each year.
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About the Duluth International Airport
Currently, United Airlines offers three daily nonstop flights to Chicago and Delta offers three daily nonstop flights to Minneapolis/St. Paul. Effective January 31, Sun Country will be offering nonstop flights to Fort Myers, Florida. We are committed to providing our travelers with superior services in a safe, secure and professional environment. Be sure to visit our Club DLH Business Suite, designed with the working traveler in mind. Visit duluthairport.com, follow us on X @DuluthAirport, and like us on facebook.com/duluthairport.
2024 Construction Projects at Duluth’s Airports Results in $49 Million in Regional Economic Impact
PRESS CONTACT
Duluth Airport Authority
Natalie Baker, Director of Communication and Marketing
(218) 625-7768
nbaker@duluthairport.com
2024 Construction Projects at Duluth’s Airports Results in $49 Million in Regional Economic Impact
With the 2024 construction season complete, the Duluth Airport Authority (DAA) remains committed to fulfilling its long-term vision for the future of both Duluth International Airport (DLH) and Sky Harbor Airport (DYT). Over the past year, the DAA has completed $24.7 million in design and construction projects as part of its Master Capital Plan which aims to enhance facilities, improve safety, and support future growth. In 2024, key projects included the reconstruction of the latest phase of Taxiway Alpha, DLH’s primary taxiway, and the renovation of the Midfield Ramp, one of the airport’s general aviation ramps. These projects improve the airport’s operational efficiency and establish a strong foundation for future growth, positioning DLH for continued success.
“The completion of these projects not only enhances the operational efficiency and safety at DLH but also positions the airport for continued growth and improved service,” said Tom Werner, Executive Director of the Duluth Airport Authority. “The DAA’s ongoing commitment to developing key infrastructure is vital in supporting regional economic growth and increasing connectivity”.
Additional figures of note include 39,000 construction hours, 16,000 tons of asphalt laid, 19,000 square yards of concrete poured,70,000 cubic yards of excavation/earthwork (equivalent to 3,500 dump truck loads), and 33,500 square feet of pavement painting. The 2024 construction season generated a regional economic impact of over $49,000,000 and supported over 214 jobs (direct, indirect, and induced) *.
The successful completion of these projects further underscores DLH’s role as a key economic engine in the Arrowhead region. However, to sustain growth and ensure that DLH can continue to serve as a reliable hub for air commerce, state and federal funding support is urgently needed to replace the airport’s 70-year-old Air Traffic Control Tower, a vital part of DLH’s infrastructure. After having the most aircraft operations on record in 2024, improving infrastructure is crucial to increase operational capacity, enhance safety, and accommodate future demands. While the ATCT project is not eligible for the same funding available for airfield projects (taxiways, runways, ramps), the design for the new tower was completed in 2024, making it shovel-ready once full funding is secured.
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About the Duluth International Airport
Currently, United Airlines offers three daily nonstop flights to Chicago and Delta offers three daily nonstop flights to Minneapolis/St. Paul. Effective January 31, Sun Country will be offering nonstop flights to Fort Myers, Florida. We are committed to providing our travelers with superior services in a safe, secure and professional environment. Be sure to visit our Club DLH Business Suite, designed with the working traveler in mind. Visit duluthairport.com, follow us on Twitter @DuluthAirport, and like us on facebook.com/duluthairport.
* Source: Associated General Contractors, Economic Impact Calculator
2025 DLH Rates and Charges
Notice of DBE Construction Goal 2025-2027
Sky Harbor Airport Terminal to be Named for Dr. Robert R. Gilruth, NASA Aerospace Pioneer
PRESS CONTACT
Duluth Airport Authority
Natalie Baker, Director of Communication and Marketing
(218) 625-7768
nbaker@duluthairport.com
Sky Harbor Airport Terminal to be Named for Dr. Robert R. Gilruth, NASA Aerospace Pioneer
October 23, 2024 – Duluth, MN- The Duluth Airport Authority is pleased to announce the Sky Harbor Airport’s new terminal will be named after Dr. Robert R. Gilruth, a legendary aerospace engineer and NASA’s first director of the Manned Spacecraft Center. A dedication ceremony will be held at Sky Harbor Airport on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 2:00pm
“Dr. Gilruth was a remarkable engineer who made significant contributions to flight research and space exploration,” said Tom Werner, Executive Director of the Duluth Airport Authority. “We are proud to celebrate his northern Minnesota heritage and enduring legacy with the naming of the Dr. Robert R. Gilruth Terminal.”
Gilruth was born in Nashwauk, Minnesota, and moved to Duluth as a child. He graduated from Duluth Central High School in 1931. Gilruth then attended the University of Minnesota, earning a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering in 1935 and a Master of Science in 1936. After graduating, Gilruth worked at NASA’s Langley Memorial Aeronautical Laboratory.
Throughout his 40-year career with NASA, Gilruth held many leadership positions and was instrumental in driving the Space Race. As Director of NASA’s Space Task Group, Gilruth and his team worked tirelessly to understand and execute a strategy for manned space missions. Gilruth served as director of NASA’s Manned Space Group for ten years, overseeing 25 human space flights during the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs.
The Robert R. Gilruth Terminal at Sky Harbor Airport opened on July 10, 2024, representing a $2.66M investment in aviation in northeast Minnesota. The terminal meets all floodplain requirements and ADA compliances. New amenities include an upscale pilot lounge, a modern flight planning room with up-to-date aeronautical information, vending options, and outdoor patio areas, which will be open to the public. Join the Duluth Airport Authority, regional leaders, aviation enthusiasts, and the public for an official naming ceremony and reception at Sky Harbor Airport on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 2pm.
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About Sky Harbor Airport
Sky Harbor Airport was created for pilots and travelers with a passion for a simpler approach to flight. Our unique amphibious air base accommodates both land and seaplane traffic and has the beautiful city of Duluth and the splendor of Lake Superior as backdrops to an experience that is unlike any other. The airport has an average of 13,500 flight operations per year. Visit skyharbor.duluthairport.com, follow us on Instagram at @duluthskyharborairport, and like us on Facebook at
facebook.com/duluthskyharborairport.
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