U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has announced an additional $20 million in federal funding to replace the air traffic control tower at Duluth International Airport. The funding, part of a broader effort to modernize aviation infrastructure, will help cover the anticipated $66 million total cost for the new facility.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had previously allocated $16.8 million from the Airport Terminal Program for this project. The current tower, built in the 1950s, is among the oldest still operating in the United States. The planned replacement will be twice as tall and provide improved visibility for controllers overseeing airport operations.
“During my visit in August, I saw firsthand the critical need to replace Duluth’s aging air traffic control tower — one of the oldest still used in the country,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “This $20 million investment moves the project closer to construction and ensures controllers will have the modern equipment they need to keep air travel safe. This administration is delivering real results for communities like Duluth.”
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford highlighted the growth at Duluth International Airport, noting that it handled over 150,000 flights last year and continues to see increased activity in 2025. “Managing a mix of commercial flights, Air National Guard missions, and flight training operations across a complex runway layout demands top-tier facilities. This new tower will give our controllers what they need to keep operations safe and efficient as the airport continues to serve the region,” Bedford said.
With this new funding, officials say construction can proceed in a single phase rather than two, which is expected to save more than $5 million by avoiding phased work.
Secretary Duffy visited Duluth International Airport’s tower in August with Rep. Pete Stauber to review conditions and reinforce federal support for regional aviation infrastructure improvements. Senator Amy Klobuchar has also advocated for securing federal investment for this project.
The funding comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act’s Airport Terminal Program, which supports modernization efforts at airports and air traffic control facilities nationwide.
