Anoka County-Blaine Airport is revising its expansion plan in partnership with local commissioners and a re-formed private partnership. The new plan focuses on rapid construction, including a hangar-and-office complex, aimed at accommodating increased corporate jet traffic during the upcoming Republican National Convention. The project involves taxpayer-backed loans, bond sales, and a shift from a previously flawed, ambitious plan.

On May 5th, the Anoka County-Blaine Airport's control tower was slated for closure due to sequester cuts. In response, the Metropolitan Airports Commission announced plans to engage in discussions with the FAA to advocate for the restoration of funding, emphasizing the need for equitable decision-making in maintaining safe operational infrastructure.

Facing the closure of its control tower due to federal sequester cuts that threaten the safe coordination of over 200 daily operations, the Metropolitan Airports Commission expressed disappointment over the FAA decision and committed to engaging in discussions to restore funding. This effort is an instance of active executive political engagement aimed at safeguarding local aviation safety and equitable service for operators.

Union plow drivers and maintenance workers, including those at Anoka County-Blaine Airport, have voted to strike amid stalled negotiations over compensation and severance pay disparities. The dispute highlights concerns that the Metropolitan Airports Commission is not providing equitable treatment compared to agreements made with other union groups.