In a significant development for aviation enthusiasts and border-crossing travelers, the Piney-Pinecreek Border Airport, which boasts a runway uniquely positioned on the border between the United States and Canada, is set to close its doors for good this Friday. Located near Roseau, Minnesota, and Piney, Manitoba, this small yet historic airport has served the region for nearly 70 years.

According to a recent announcement by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the airport has suffered from "very low use" over the years and is burdened with hefty maintenance costs related to the runway, apron, and terminal infrastructure. The current international agreement, which allows for the airport's operations, is slated to expire on December 26, and neither airport owner has expressed interest in renewing it.

Since its inception in 1953, the airport has witnessed significant transformations. Initially opening with a grass runway, it upgraded to a paved runway in 1978, making it one of only six airports straddling the US-Canada border, and the only one featuring a paved runway. The airport was particularly cherished by American hunters and fishermen traveling across the border for their outdoor adventures.

The unique international agreement enabled airport staff to seamlessly navigate between the two countries without the need for traditional customs checks, a convenience that underscored the airport's importance for local communities. However, despite its novelty and historical significance, the combination of declining traffic and escalating maintenance requirements ultimately dictated its fate.

As the Piney-Pinecreek Border Airport prepares to close, local residents are left reminiscing about the vibrant exchanges and adventures that occurred at this crossing point over the decades. The closure marks the end of an era, signaling a shift in travel dynamics for those in the region who relied on this unique airport for their cross-border journeys.

With the airport's closure, travelers will need to seek alternative routes for their trips, highlighting the ongoing changes in regional transportation and border accessibility. Stay tuned as we uncover more stories about the impact of this airport's shutdown on the local economy and the community's future.