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BISMARCK - North Dakota’s aviation and aerospace industry generates nearly $3.6 billion in annual economic output and supports about 28,734 jobs statewide, according to new studies released by the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC).
The most comprehensive evaluation of the state's aviation system in more than a decade, these studies include the economic activity generated by the state’s 89 public-use airports, aerospace manufacturers, the University of North Dakota’s School of Aerospace Sciences, the unmanned aircraft systems industry, and Grand Forks and Minot Air Force Bases.
A public presentation of the 2025 North Dakota State Aviation System Plan and 2025 North Dakota Aviation Economic Impact Study findings will be given Tuesday, Aug. 25, from 3-5 p.m. in Minot City Hall, council chambers. The presentation will provide an overview of the findings, including statewide aviation trends, economic impacts, infrastructure needs and aviation activity forecasts.
North Dakota’s public-use airports support an estimated 13,637 jobs, generate more than $750 million in annual payroll, and produce nearly $1.8 billion in annual economic output through airport operations, aviation businesses, capital investments, and visitor activity, according to the studies.
In addition to documenting aviation’s current economic impact, the State Aviation System Plan evaluates existing airport infrastructure, forecasts future aviation activity, and identifies priorities that will help guide aviation investment over the next decade.
The plan estimates about $1.1 billion in airport infrastructure needs across North Dakota during the next ten years. While federal, state, and local funding programs are expected to support much of this investment, the study identifies an estimated $350 million funding shortfall that will require continued collaboration and strategic investment to ensure the state’s airports remain safe, efficient and capable of supporting future transportation and economic needs.
“The aviation industry has changed significantly over the past decade,” said Kyle Wanner, NDAC executive director. “North Dakota has emerged as a national leader in areas such as unmanned aircraft systems, aerospace education and aviation innovation while continuing to make strategic investments in both commercial service and general aviation airports. These studies provide a blueprint for future decisions that will help shape an aviation system that continues to drive economic opportunity, strengthen statewide connectivity and enhance the quality of life for all North Dakotans.”