Duluth Airport Authority Celebrates First Set Of Hangars Built In 25 Years

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Airport Authority is celebrating the completion of the first set of hangars built in 25 years.

The Ranch Hangar Project totaled about $1.8 million with 90% federal funding, 10% local match. It will be able to house up to 5 aircrafts with a space that is heated and secure. This is just the beginning of the next decade of initiatives with plans to do a series of hangar expansions.

“Guided by our vision and strategic plan. We are revitalizing underutilized properties to realize our goals. This project is evidence of our commitment to excellence and expansion. Increasing opportunities for additional aircraft based at Duluth International Airport contributes to the vitality to various organizations located on our airfield,” said Kim Maki, Board President of the DAA.

The new hangars will help grow Duluth’s general aviation community and highlight their importance.

“You know less than 1% of Americans have a pilot’s license so, it’s a small community that supports an entire industry. And that community begins with general aviation. It begins with people learning how to fly and being interested in flight. It begins with things like the Duluth Airshow this weekend which gets people excited about flying. And it begins with investments like these ranch hangars that give pilots and general aviation a place to call home,” said Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert.

According to an Airport Economic Impact Study done in 2019, the Duluth International Airport makes a big contribution to the state’s economy, totaling more than 3 quarters of a billion dollars annually. Officials say projects like this only entice economic activity further.