General Aviation Airports

2023 Annual Report

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General aviation airports see steady growth

The MAC’s general aviation airports provide a base for 31 direct commercial operators, nearly 1,250 aircraft, and a network of renowned aviation businesses that support on-demand business flights, charter services, flight training, medical services, aircraft maintenance, as well as recreation and private flying. Nearly 30 MAC employees and hundreds of private employees support the activity at the general aviation airports.

Five MAC general aviation airports have community and industry advisory commissions. These commissions met several times in 2023 to discuss airport development, aircraft operations and noise concerns.

The MAC is well positioned to serve the growth in recreation and corporate flying activity, and to accommodate millions of dollars in new private investments that expand services and facilities for airport tenants and users.

Airlake Airport

Located just south of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area in Lakeville, Airlake Airport (LVN) mostly serves recreational fliers. The airport is also well suited for business aviation, particularly for the many local businesses located nearby.

Anoka County-Blaine Airport

Anoka County-Blaine Airport (ANE), located north of the Twin Cities metro area, is home to the most diverse aircraft fleet in the Metropolitan Airports Commission's general aviation airport system. A variety of vintage, experimental, recreational and corporate aircraft are based at ANE.

Crystal Airport

Crystal Airport (MIC) is located just northwest of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area in the city of Crystal. Many thriving businesses call the airport home including a busy flight school, a nationally recognized aircraft parts and maintenance facility, and a regionally known propeller repair and overhaul facility.

Flying Cloud Airport

Flying Cloud Airport has been part of the Metropolitan Airports Commission’s general aviation airport system for 75 years, during which time the airport has matured into a bustling and thriving economic generator.

Lake Elmo Airport

Located between the city of St. Paul to the west and the St. Croix River to the east, Lake Elmo Airport (21D) is convenient for both business and leisure flying. While 21D experiences the fewest operations of the Metropolitan Airports Commission's general aviation airports, it is still one of the top 10 busiest airports in Minnesota.

St. Paul Downtown Airport

Located along the Mississippi River and just south of downtown St. Paul, the St. Paul Downtown Airport (STP) generates a vibrancy all its own. A popular base for corporate aircraft due to its location and for having the longest runway – 6,941 feet – in the MAC's general aviation airport system, the airport also offers charter services, has two fixed-base operators and a U.S. Customs facility, and is home to the highly popular Holman’s Table restaurant.