Sawyer County Airport reports surge in traffic, master-plan work underway

The Sawyer County Airport reported a marked uptick in activity at a Public Works Committee meeting, with airport staff saying flights have returned almost daily and the facility saw one day with nine business jets because nearby Duluth was unable to accept arrivals.

Airport presenter Leslie said the county’s new runway has been easier to keep clear than the old surface and credited the improved condition for supporting more frequent traffic. "The last three weeks is probably the busiest stretch that I remember us having for this time of the year," Leslie said.

He said state-level attention to the Historic County Airport has increased, citing a meeting scheduled to review submitted aviation forecasts. Leslie said he expects a more detailed master-plan update at the committee's next meeting.

The committee did not take formal action on airport items; Leslie indicated he will provide a fuller report next month.