News from the MAC Chair - June 2025

Greetings:

I’m pleased to share the latest news and happenings from around the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC). From construction projects kicking off to new routes for international travelers and exciting events at our airports, summer has arrived for our community.

Kicking off summer travel season with a record number of international destinations

Just ahead of Memorial Day weekend, Delta Air Lines launched two new international routes from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP).

Last month, we celebrated the first-ever nonstop departure to Copenhagen, Denmark (CPH). The seasonal flight now operates three times weekly on an A330-300 aircraft. Delta also launched new seasonal MSP service to Rome, Italy (FCO), that operates four times weekly on an A330-300 aircraft. These new routes propel MSP to a new record for international service, with airlines now offering nonstop flights to 35 different destinations this year.

2025 is expected to be another strong year for summer travel, especially internationally. Locally, MSP’s 17 airlines will peak this summer at 468 average daily departures to 140 destinations.

As we prepare for a busy summer travel season, we’re here to help passengers have an exceptional experience. As you plan your summer travels, keep in mind the following tips:

• MSP Reserve offers passengers a scheduled spot and set time in the security line for free. Availability is limited and offered at select times.
• In Terminal 1, security checkpoint boards at both ends of the ticketing lobby display which checkpoints have the shortest wait times.
• Book parking reservations online now to guarantee a spot and receive the lowest daily rates. Bookings must be made at least 12 hours before the scheduled arrival time.

And a reminder for domestic travelers during this busy season: All U.S. travelers must be REAL ID-compliant to board domestic flights. Although TSA is continuing to accept non-REAL ID licenses, passengers without a compliant ID may experience additional screening and delays. If you don't have a REAL ID, consider starting the application process today for smoother travels.

Summer at the MAC's airports

Calling all aviation enthusiasts: Check out these fun, informative events at our general aviation airports this summer!

• June 28: Anoka County-Blaine Airport, EAA Chapter 237 Pancake Breakfast fly-in drive-in, 8 a.m. to noon
• July 6: Airlake Airport, Pan-O-Prog Lions Fly-in Pancake Breakfast, 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
• July 12: Flying Cloud Airport, Wings of the North AirFair, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Aug. 10: Lake Elmo Airport, EAA Chapter 54 Fly-in Pancake Breakfast, 8 a.m. to noon
• Sept. 20: Flying Cloud Airport, Girls in Aviation Day, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

News from the Board

We have several commissioners taking new leadership roles this year. Commissioner James Lawrence is our new chair for the Planning, Development and Environment Committee, while Commissioner Ikram Koliso will continue serving as the committee’s vice chair. Commissioner Rodney Skoog will be our new chair for the Operations, Finance and Administration Committee, with Commissioner Braj Agrawal assuming the role of the committee’s vice chair. And thank you to Commissioner Don Monaco, who is retiring from the board after 16 years of service. Representing Greater Minnesota, Don brought unmatched perspective to our organization and led the Operations, Finance and Administration Committee for much of his tenure. Later this year, we’ll have new faces joining the board in our currently vacant positions awaiting appointment by Gov. Tim Walz. Visit our website to learn more about the commission and our oversight role.

Summer ’25 is already proving to be an exciting one at our airports. Whether you’re enjoying the longer, warmer days in Minnesota or jetting off around the world, I hope your summer is filled with more happy memories than mosquitos.