"We need to plan ahead to ensure Minnesota continues to have world class air service," Pawlenty says. "The 20/20 Vision plan is the right plan to help Northwest Airlines expand, while at the same time continuing to provide room for competition."
The plan, which has been endorsed by Eagan-based Northwest Airlines, the airport's anchor carrier, is envisioned in three phases that could also see the development of a new hotel and conference center at the airport. The plan includes increasing the gates at the Lindbergh Terminal from 117 to 153, increasing the gates at the Humphrey Terminal from eight to 20 and construction of a 400-room hotel at the airport.
"In a time when other major carriers are closing their hubs and discontinuing service to cities across the country, Northwest Airlines is committed to expanding its service to our community," Pawlenty says.
Pawlenty says the expansion is needed to keep pace with a growing Minnesota. Air travel at Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport is expected to increase by 60% over the next 15 years. O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, one of the busiest airports in the world, was recently forced to reduce the number of flights by the Federal Aviation Administration due to their congested airfields and excessive delays.
The state says the economic impact of the expansion could result in 40,000 new permanent jobs for the region, along with increasing personal income by about $2.5 billion. The plan, which needs approval by the Metropolitan Airports Commission, would not use any state or local taxes, but would be funded by a combination of user fees, federal grants and passenger facility charges.
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