St. Cloud Airport Authority Reports $10.9 Million in Improvements, 23% Passenger Increase Since 2022

(KNSI) — The St. Cloud Regional Airport Authority released its report on what it has accomplished since taking over airport operations on January 1st, 2022.

The Authority has completed $10.9 million in improvements and equipment replacement, with federal and state grants covering 93% of costs. Major projects include a $3.5 million heated hangar with ten units and an $850,000 firefighting truck. The airport is working with St. Cloud Technical and Community College to build a 30,000-square-foot facility for an aircraft maintenance technician program.

The airport expects about $8.5 million in grant funding for 2026 projects, including a 20,000-gallon jet fuel tank, apron reconstruction, and new navigation equipment.

“St. Cloud Sky Central Airport is actively leveraging state and federal partnerships to secure funding for critical infrastructure improvements,” said Brian Myres, Airport Authority Board Chair. “The ability to attract these grants has been a key advantage since transitioning to an Airport Authority.”

The airport served over 44,000 passengers in 2024 through Allegiant Air and Sun Country Airlines, a 23% increase from 2023. Revenue from parking, hangars, ground leases, and fuel sales also increased.

“Financially, we are operating the airport more like a business, optimizing existing assets by adjusting rates and strategically investing in new, revenue-generating infrastructure,” said Bill Towle, Airport Director. “This approach is crucial for ensuring long-term fiscal responsibility.”

The airport generates about $50 million annually for central Minnesota’s economy through commercial flights, corporate travel, and general aviation.

The full report is available by clicking here.

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