Immigration enforcement by federal agencies at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
Immigration enforcement by federal agencies at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
January 15, 2026
The following information is current as of Jan. 15, 2026, and is intended to provide the airport community with current information to support a safe and smooth experience at MSP.
The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) is aware of increased concern related to immigration enforcement activity by federal agencies at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP).
The safety and security of MSP Airport and the MSP Airport community – including our valued businesses, workers and passengers – is our number one priority.
MSP is a public-use airport subject to federal regulation. Federal agents have broad access to airport property, and our airport will follow all federal legal regulations.
We expect that all federal officers (including CBP and TSA) will continue to do their best to keep MSP running smoothly and will act with the professionalism and respect that MSP is known for.
Frequently asked questions
Can federal agents access MSP Airport?
Federal regulations provide federal agents with broad access to airport property. This includes access to the airfield, pre- and post-security areas in the terminals, and public spaces like parking ramps and lots.
Can the MAC limit actions by federal agencies at MSP or any of its other airports?
The MAC cannot interfere with law enforcement operations by federal agencies, including the TSA, CBP, ICE and FBI. We also cannot limit access for federal agencies to airport properties, including employee and post-security areas.
Does the MSP Airport Police Department (APD) conduct immigration enforcement?
The MAC and APD do not receive advance notice of or coordinate immigration enforcement activity.
APD’s focus is on providing a safe and secure environment for passengers and the MSP community.
Can the MAC stop federal agencies from using MSP for flights related to immigration enforcement?
No. MSP is a public-use airport subject to federal regulation.
The MAC cannot legally restrict access to MSP for public or private aircraft operations – including aircraft chartered for federal government purposes.
Can the MAC share information about upcoming federal immigration enforcement flights?
The MAC does not receive advance notification of general aviation or non-commercial flight operations at MSP – this is essentially all flights that don’t use gates at Terminals 1 and 2.
Can the MAC confirm recent changes in immigration enforcement activity at MSP?
Federal agents regularly operate at MSP for immigration enforcement related to passenger and cargo flights. Neither the MAC nor the APD receive advance notice of additional immigration enforcement activity at MSP. We are not able to confirm cases, incidents or unsubstantiated speculation about immigration enforcement activities. Questions about immigration enforcement activities or cases should be directed to the appropriate federal agency.