UP Gazette

State Representative Karl Bohnak, a Republican from Deerton, has voiced support for a proposed $3 million state grant aimed at supporting air service and infrastructure development at Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport (MQT). The funding was discussed by the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor and Economic Opportunity.

Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport is the only commercial airport in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula that does not receive federal funding. Each year, it serves over 82,000 passengers and handles more than 5 million pounds of cargo.

Bohnak highlighted the importance of the airport to the region. “Our Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport stands out as the only commercial airport in the Upper Peninsula. MQT is a vital transportation and economic asset that connects residents, businesses, and visitors to the rest of the country,” he said.

He also emphasized how state funding could help maintain and expand services. “Funding from the state would help ensure the airport can continue to provide reliable, accessible, and forward-looking air service. MQT already offers direct connections to key air travel hubs like Detroit, Chicago, and as of this year, Minneapolis-St. Paul, bridging the gap for business, healthcare, and tourism services. State dollars would help expand airport offerings by supporting route development studies, airline engagement, and early-stage incentives so MQT can attract additional routes, including potential service to places like Denver, Orlando, or Charlotte.”

Bohnak added that investments would support both infrastructure improvements and community growth. “Any investment from the state would allow the airport to invest in key infrastructure improvements and continue growing and evolving along with the surrounding greater-Marquette community. A strong, stable airport like MQT is foundational to realizing the U.P.’s full economic potential.”