Improved Runway Helps International Falls Residents Take a Break from Winter
Non-stop charter flights to Laughlin, Nevada provide easy access to warm weather and the chance to win big. It is an opportunity many residents of the “Icebox of the Nation” have been waiting for: travel to warmers climes without transferring planes or waiting out a layover.
February 21, 2007 - International Falls, MN A runway extension at Falls International Airport has brought new travel possibilities to this northern Minnesota town. Thanks to the improved facilities and the efforts of local travel agent Penny Strongman, a group of 160 people will be taking off on a Sun Country 737/800 charter plane on Monday, February 26 and landing in Laughlin, Nevada for five days.
The idea came to Strongman, owner of Strongman Travel, as she heard numerous requests for chartered vacations. Once she realized that there was enough interest to approach airlines with the idea, she began a letter writing campaign. Working in conjunction with airport officials Strongman shared information on the community of nearly 7,000 and the airport's increased capabilities.
Initially, Strongman received a few refusals, but her determination paid off when she was contacted by Sun Country Airlines. She believes that the recent runway expansion at Falls International Airport was a crucial selling point. The expansion makes the airport one of four in Minnesota with runways measuring 7,400 feet or more, which means few limitations on the size of aircraft that can be serviced. The new runway will allow the airport to accommodate a greater variety of aircraft, handle more heavily loaded airplanes, and improve the safety of all flights.
TThe initial charter trip quickly filled with travelers from International Falls and Fort Frances, Ontario. Another is already in the works and Strongman feels confident that this is only the beginning of what the runway extension will mean for travel, tourism and overall economic development in the area. She and other area leaders note that the increased capabilities of the international airport combined with travelers' ability to quickly clear customs will enhance the region's potential for attracting new business and bring quality jobs to the area. "It is truly a testament to what we can do as individuals and a community." Strongman says, "We decided to pursue it and didn't give up and look what can happen."
About the Koochiching Economic Development Authority (KEDA): KEDA was created by statute in 2000 as a joint powers development authority between the City of International Falls and Koochiching County. KEDA was created to centralize and coordinate the economic development efforts throughout Koochiching County. Its primary focus is on job retention, creation, and diversification. KEDA is the point of contact for businesses looking to start, expand, or locate in Koochiching and can assist in site selection, economic assistance, workforce information, and simplifying the process. For more info visit www.businessupnorth.com.
