Category: News
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.
###
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.
###
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.
###
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.
Duluth International Airport Welcomes Non-Stop Sun Country Airlines Service to Fort Myers
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 19, 2024
CONTACT:
Natalie Baker, Duluth Airport Authority
Director of Communications & Marketing
218.625.7768
DULUTH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WELCOMES NON-STOP SUN COUNTRY AIRLINES SERVICE TO FORT MYERS FLORIDA
Duluth, MN – September 19, 2024 – The Duluth Airport Authority is thrilled to announce the return of direct flights from Duluth International Airport (DLH) to Fort Myers, Florida, (RSW) beginning January 31, 2025. This reinstated route promises to offer convenient travel options for passengers to travel to the beaches of Southwest Florida.
The direct service will operate on Monday’s and Friday’s departing DLH at 7:00 pm and arriving at RSW at 11:35 pm, and departing RSW at 3:05 pm arriving at DLH at 5:50 pm. This schedule is designed to provide travelers with optimal flexibility and seamless connections between the popular leisure destination of Fort Myers, Florida.
“We are excited to welcome Sun Country back with this direct route to Fort Myers, which has been a favorite among leisure travelers for its convenience” said Tom Werner, Duluth Airport Authorities’ Executive Director. “If the route is to expand its season in Duluth going forward, we as a community must demonstrate demand to do so.”
The resumption of this seasonal route comes in response to strong demand for travelers seeking direct access to Southwest Florida.
###
About Duluth International Airport About Duluth International Airport
Currently, United Airlines offers three daily nonstop flight 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
customers 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.
2024 DLH Rates and Charges
Duluth International Airport to Host Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) Public Open House
WHAT:
(Duluth, MN) The Duluth International Airport is in the design phase of a new Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) and will be hosting an Open House to provide project information. The ATCT Open House will:
1. Present an overview of the ATCT purpose, process and goals.
2. Share the project schedule with the community.
3. Allow a chance to talk with and ask questions of the project team.
4. Provide an opportunity for stakeholders to share feedback
The ATCT located at DLH was built in the mid-1950s making it the 3rd oldest air traffic control tower in the country. The tower is deteriorating and does not meet FAA standards for line-of-sight requirements. Historically, there has not been a federal program to fund the replacement of locally owned air traffic facilities. The Investment in Infrastructure and Jobs Act (IIJA) provides a unique funding opportunity for the Duluth Airport Authority. The DAA was awarded $10 million dollars from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through the competitive grant program as part of the IIJA. Additional project funding is being sought from the State of Minnesota and the FAA.
Enabling projects to facilitate the construction of the new ATCT are expected to begin in summer 2024 with work beginning in the spring of 2025 with substantial completion at the end of 2026. The new ATCT will replace aging infrastructure, provide improved ADA access and expand accessibility, improve energy efficiency with potential to achieve LEED accreditation, improve airfield safety through improved line of sight, ensure passenger and military airport access, eliminate hazardous materials, such as lead and increase overall safety and efficiency at DLH.
WHEN:
Wednesday, April 10, 2024
5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (with a presentation at 5:45 p.m.)
WHERE:
Duluth International Airport Terminal
4701 Grinden Dr.
Duluth, MN 55811
3rd Floor Amatuzio Conference Room
###
About Duluth International Airport
Currently, United Airlines offers three daily nonstop flights to Chicago, Delta offers five daily nonstop flights to Minneapolis/St. Paul, and American Airlines offers two daily nonstop flights to Chicago. We are committed to providing our customers 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 at facebook.com/duluthairport.
Duluth Airport Authority Announces Air Traffic Control Tower Open House
DULUTH, MN – Duluth International Airport announces that they are beginning a project to replace the Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT), and a project Open House will be held on April 10, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Duluth. Anyone who is interested in learning more about construction of the new ATCT is encouraged to attend this open house. There will be a brief presentation at 5:45 p.m.
The ATCT Open House will:
1.Present an overview of the ATCT project’s purpose, process and goals.
2.Share the project schedule with the community.
3.Allow a chance to talk with and ask questions of the project team.
4.Provide an opportunity for stakeholders to share feedback
The ATCT at DLH was built in the mid-1950s making it the 3rd oldest air traffic control tower in the country. The tower is deteriorating and does not meet FAA standards for line-of-sight requirements. Historically, there has not been a federal program to fund the replacement of locally owned air traffic facilities. The Investment in Infrastructure and Jobs Act (IIJA) provides a unique funding opportunity for the Duluth Airport Authority. The DAA was awarded $10 million dollars from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through the competitive grant program as part of the IIJA. Additional project funding is being sought from the State of Minnesota and the FAA.
Enabling projects to facilitate the construction of the new ATCT are expected to begin in summer 2024 with work beginning in the spring of 2025. Substantial completion is anticipated at the end of 2026. The new ATCT will replace aging infrastructure, provide improved ADA access and expands accessibility, improve energy efficiency with potential to achieve LEED accreditation, improve airfield safety through improved line of sight, ensure passenger and military airport
access, eliminate hazardous materials, such as lead and increase overall safety and efficiency at DLH.
###
About Duluth International Airport
Currently, United Airlines offers three daily nonstop flight to Chicago and Delta offers three daily nonstop flights to Minneapolis/St. Paul. Effective February 2, Sun Country will be offering nonstop flights to Fort Myers, Florida. We are committed to providing our customers 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
NOTICE OF FAA APPROVAL OF A FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT (FONSI) – Construction of an Airport-owned Air Traffic Control Tower and Enabling Projects
NOTICE OF FAA APPROVAL OF A FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT (FONSI) FOR THE
Duluth International Airport
Construction of an Airport-owned Air Traffic Control Tower and Enabling Projects
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced an approved Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the February 2024 Environmental Assessment (EA) prepared for the construction of an airport-owned air traffic control tower (ATCT) and enabling projects (the Action) at the Duluth International Airport, Duluth, Minnesota.
The FONSI indicates that the project is consistent with existing environmental policies and objectives as set forth in the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and will not significantly affect the quality of the environment. The EA provides information on the action and discussed the potential economic, social, environmental impacts, and mitigation measures, as appropriate, of the construction of an airport-owned ATCT and enabling projects. It was prepared pursuant to the requirements of Section 102(2)(c) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), and in accordance with FAA Order 1050.1F, Environmental Impacts: Policies and Procedures, FAA Order 5050.4B, NEPA Implementing Instructions for Airport Actions.
The purpose of the Action is to construct a new, airport-owned, ATCT that meets FAA’s minimum siting requirements. The need for the project is due to the existing ATCT being over 70 years old and past its useful life. The replacement ATCT will enable the installation of modern and required air traffic control equipment, provide an adequate and an enhanced work environment, lower operating costs, and improve environmental performance.
The FONSI is available for download here [PDF].
The FONSI is attached to the EA. Notice of the FAA’s FONSI for the February 2024 EA, published on March 6, 2024, will only be available for a 30-day period through April 5, 2024, at the following locations:
- Duluth Airport Authority administration offices, 4701 Grinden Drive, Duluth
- Duluth City Hall, 411 West 1st Street, Duluth
- Hermantown City Hall, 5105 Maple Grove Road, Hermantown
- Duluth Public Library, 520 West Superior Street, Duluth
- MNDOT District 1, 1123 Mesaba Avenue, Duluth
For further information, contact:
Ms. Melissa Jenny
Federal Aviation Administration
Dakota Minnesota Airports District Office
6020 28th Ave. S Ste. 101 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55450-2704
Melissa.M.Jenny@faa.gov
| CLICK HERE »