Chippewa County International Airport (CIU)

Chippewa County International Airport (CIU), also known by its ICAO code KCIU, is a significant regional aviation facility serving the city of Sault Ste. Marie and the Eastern Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Located approximately 15 miles south of the city in Kincheloe, the airport is situated on the historic site of the former Kincheloe Air Force Base, which was a major Strategic Air Command installation during the Cold War. The facility is managed by the Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation and acts as a critical link for the region's prominent aerospace, international trade, and tourism sectors. The airport features a modern 20,400-square-foot passenger terminal that was opened in September 2002 to provide a high-quality gateway for the region. The terminal is designed for maximum efficiency and protection from the harsh Michigan winters, featuring an enclosed boarding bridge and a heated entryway canopy. Inside, the facility offers a straightforward layout with integrated check-in counters, an automated baggage claim area, and a comfortable departure lounge. The airfield infrastructure inherited from its military past includes exceptionally long runways, with the primary runway (16/34) measuring 7,203 feet, allowing it to accommodate a wide range of commercial and cargo aircraft with high reliability. Amenities at Chippewa County International are tailored to the needs of regional travelers and private pilots. The terminal is home to 'Das Gift Haus,' a popular restaurant and lounge offering a variety of meals and refreshments with views of the airfield. For the convenience of passengers, free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, along with car rental counters for major brands like Avis and Budget. As an official international gateway, CIU provides on-site U.S. Customs and Border Protection services for private and commercial flights arriving from nearby Canada. Commercial services are primarily provided by Delta Connection (operated by SkyWest Airlines), which offers frequent daily jet flights to the major hubs at Detroit (DTW) and Minneapolis (MSP), ensuring seamless connectivity for the local community to the global air network.