Extend/expand runway

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Great Lakes Region, awarded a formula grant of $546,800 to the Thief River Falls Regional Airport Authority on September 2, 2025, under the Airport Improvement Program (CFDA 20.106). This grant funds Phase 1 of a runway extension project at Thief River Falls Regional Airport in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, with an ultimate completion date of September 1, 2029. The primary deliverable is an environmental assessment required to support the expansion of existing Runway 13/31 by 796 feet, which will enable the airport to accommodate a broader mix of aircraft.

Upon completion of the environmental assessment phase, the runway extension will expand airport capacity and operational flexibility by accommodating larger and more diverse aircraft, thereby enhancing regional transportation infrastructure and economic development. The Airport Improvement Program supports the FAA's strategic objectives of safety, operational excellence, and long-term economic benefits through transportation infrastructure investment. This award represents part of the airport authority's sustained commitment to modernizing regional airport facilities, complementing concurrent federal investments in terminal construction, taxiway and runway lighting upgrades, and airfield infrastructure improvements.

Activities and expected outcomes

This project extends existing paved runway 13/31 an additional 796 feet in length to allow access to a broader fleet mix. This grant funds phase 1, which consists of environmental assessment. Intended beneficiary: this grant will provide federal funding for airports associated with thief river falls, minnesota.