The Bureau of Business and Economic Research’s (BBER) study analyzed the airport’s impact on the state that was generated by airport management, business tenants, capital investments, and visitor spending from general aviation and commercial passengers.
The $1.4 billion noted above is through direct, indirect, and induced impacts. The research also found that the airport supported over 4,000 full-time jobs annually (direct, indirect, and induced), resulting in $284.8 million in labor income. The employment multiplier for the airport—estimated at 1.31—suggests that for every one job directly supported by the airport, another 0.31 jobs may be added in other supporting industries.
Additionally, roughly 128,000 enplaned commercial passengers visited the Duluth International Airport in 2023, 44% of which came from outside the state. Other key findings from the study include:
● Business Tenants: With 18 businesses operating on site, including Cirrus and the 148th Fighter Wing, the airport’s tenants collectively supported 3,254 jobs, generated $235 million in labor income, and contributed $1.3 billion in economic output—making them the largest driver of the airport’s total impact.
● Capital Improvements: From 2025 to 2029, planned capital improvements averaging $30 million annually are expected to support 317 jobs, generate $24.7 million in labor income, and produce $61.1 million in economic output each year.
● Visitor Spending: Both general aviation and commercial visitors contributed to the local economy, supporting a combined 398 jobs, contributing $21.5 million in labor income, and generating $56.8 million in economic output.
Giant, formerly Giant Voices, engaged the BBER to conduct the study on behalf of the Duluth Airport Authority. The study calculated economic impacts
A labor market analysis of the surrounding area highlights both strengths and challenges for aviation-related industries in Duluth. The region offers competitive wages, and a younger, more educated workforce compared to other areas. However, recruitment efforts are hindered by limited housing availability, older housing stock, and lower vehicle ownership rates. Despite these challenges, shorter commuting times and Duluth’s high labor force participation rates are assets that can help attract and retain workers in the aviation sector.
“This study reaffirms the critical role the Duluth International Airport plays as a powerful economic engine, supporting thousands of jobs and driving growth across the region,” said Tom Werner, executive director of the Duluth Airport Authority. “Beyond just transportation, the airport fuels business expansion and strengthens our economic resilience.”