The Piney-Pinecreek Border Airport, known for its runway straddling the U.S.-Canada border, is set to close after 70 years of operation. Located near Roseau, Minnesota, and Piney, Manitoba, this unique airport is the only one with a paved runway crossing the international divide. Its last day of operation will be December 26.
The decision to shut down the airport, announced by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) earlier this month, was driven by several factors including very low usage, high maintenance expenses, and the expiration of the international agreement necessary for the airport's operation. The agreement, which facilitated seamless travel across the Canada-U.S. border for staff and users, will not be renewed by either country.
After opening its grass runway back in 1953, the Piney-Pinecreek Border Airport was later extended to include paved surfaces, with substantial renovations happening over the decades. It has served primarily as a gateway for hunters and fishing enthusiasts traveling to Canada. According to Ryan Gaug, the director of MnDOT’s Office of Aeronautics, the airport has seen around 200 aircraft utilize its facilities every year, albeit much lower than traffic found at similar-sized airports. "It’s always been the No. 1 fun fact... it’s tough decision to close an airport ever, but the evidence was all there..." Gaug explained.
The airport, being the only U.S.-based facility with such unique international features, had been highlighted as “the world’s first binational airport” back in 1979. Local resident and former airport commission member Marlin Elton remarked, "It’s very sad for the community to lose its airport..." highlighting feelings of loss among the residents. The closure is bittersweet; it signifies the end of not just an airport, but also the opportunity for seamless border crossings, which had been integral to the local aviation community.
David Beaudry, chair of the board overseeing the airport, pointed to fiscal realities: "Fiscal budgets are so tight; everything is so expensive." This financial strain affected both partners involved, with the Rural Municipality of Piney unable to contribute needed funds to support the airport's future. "We really tried... both parties are sad to see it go," Beaudry affirmed as he reflected on joint efforts for the airport’s survival.
The airport reached its peak during busy summer months when many Canadians crossed over, especially for fishing trips or to attend the popular air shows. Mark Elton, current airport manager and son of former manager Marlin Elton who had maintained the facility for years, expressed nostalgia. "Sometimes you see six or seven airplanes in a row... it was part of life here," he shared. The airport has not only served local recreational needs but had also been part of many families’ legacies, focusing on community connections.
Looking back, the airport had been conceived shortly after World War II, with local aviation enthusiasts spearheading initiatives to turn dreams of travel and efficient customs processing for air travelers from both the U.S. and Canada. With memories of pancake breakfasts alongside airshow performances, the airport grew to become more than just tarmac and runways—it became synonymous with community identity.
Yet, the harsh reality remains: over time, maintenance costs climbed steeply, with current short-term estimates nearing $3.8 million to bring the facility up to safety standards. Estimates reveal long-term needs could reach $9.5 million over the next two decades, leading MnDOT officials to question the viability of operating this lightly-used airport.
On the eve of closure, Gaug acknowledged the poignant decision to shut Piney-Pinecreek, emphasizing it’s never easy to end such messages. "But when Canada made their decision, it really forced our hand. The answer was ‘no.’" The airport will pass histories of camaraderie and aviation charm to stories of the past—forever memorializing the uniqueness it brought to both nations and leaving behind memories for the community it served.
With the impending end of operations, residents and airport users alike are preparing to bid farewell to this landmark location, signaling significant change for the local community. This development marks the closing chapter of Piney-Pinecreek Border Airport’s operations—a facility described as minor yet unique—reminding us all of the ever-evolving nature of transportation and community infrastructure.
