News

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 & Charges

Notice of DBE Construction Goal 2025-2027

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.