ALEXANDRIA, MINN. — Significant improvements are on the horizon for Alexandria Regional Airport (AXN) as planning continues for a major runway reconstruction project expected to begin in 2027.
Updates shared during the June 18, 2026, Alexandria Airport meeting indicate that final bidding documents for the reconstruction of Runway 13/31 have been completed or are nearing completion, allowing the project to be advertised for bids later this year. Project specifications requested proposals for both asphalt and concrete runway options, with a construction material decision expected once bids are evaluated.
Preparations for the larger reconstruction effort are already underway. The Alexandria City Council awarded a $293,561.25 contract to Joe Riley Construction to pave the Bellanca Lane area on the ramp north of the historic Bellanca building. The newly paved area will accommodate a future aircraft fueling system, with installation planned to follow the upcoming runway project.
Pilots can also look forward to improved instrument approach capabilities. A new state-of-the-art Instrument Landing System (ILS) supplied by MNDOT Aeronautics has already arrived at the airport and is scheduled for installation as part of the 2027 construction project, further enhancing operational safety during low-visibility conditions.
Community Events Planned
The airport will also be bustling with activity throughout the summer and fall.
A community air show hosted by the Wings Over Alexandria organization is scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026. The organization is seeking volunteers to assist with aircraft operations, ramp activities, and visitor support. Individuals interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact them.
Later in the year, LifeLink III will host the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce’s “Wake-Up Alexandria” breakfast on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 7:30 a.m. The event will feature Life Link III and its helicopter emergency medical services team. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the facility, learn about helicopter emergency medical operations, and gain insight into the critical role Life Link III plays in transporting seriously ill and injured patients throughout central Minnesota and the Upper Midwest.
Volunteer Pilots Making a Difference
The airport is also home to a community of volunteer aviators supporting organizations that provide free air transportation for patients traveling to medical appointments.
Two nonprofit organizations—LifeLine Pilots and Angel Flight Central—coordinate flights for ambulatory patients who need transportation to specialized medical care throughout the Upper Midwest and beyond. These volunteer pilot programs help reduce the financial and logistical burden of long-distance travel for qualifying patients and their families.
With major infrastructure improvements on the horizon, expanded instrument capabilities, and a full calendar of community events, Alexandria Regional Airport continues to strengthen its role as a regional aviation asset serving pilots, businesses, emergency responders, and the surrounding community.