Grand Rapids Itasca Co-Gordon Newstrom field (GPZ)

Grand Rapids–Itasca County Airport (GPZ), also known as Gordon Newstrom Field, is a premier general aviation facility serving the city of Grand Rapids and the wider Itasca County region in northern Minnesota. Located approximately two miles southeast of the city center, the airport is a critical transport link for the region's diverse economic sectors, including forestry, tourism, and healthcare. The airport operates a substantial 1,400-acre site with three well-maintained runways, making it a key aviation hub for the Arrowhead region.

The facilities at Grand Rapids–Itasca County offer a professional and welcoming environment tailored to the needs of the general aviation community. The airport is supported by its primary Fixed Base Operator (FBO), Airways Aviation Center, Inc., which provides a range of essential services for pilots and passengers. Inside the terminal area, travelers find comfortable waiting sections and flight planning resources. The FBO offers full-service fueling seven days a week, along with aircraft maintenance, hangar rentals, and tie-down services, ensuring a high standard of support for all visitors.

As a dedicated general aviation hub, GPZ does not currently host regularly scheduled commercial airline services. Historically, the airport was served by several regional carriers including Mesaba Airlines and Northwest Airlink, which connected Grand Rapids to Minneapolis until 2004. Today, its primary mission is to support private flyers, corporate business, and essential services for the local community. The facility is a vital base for flight training, aircraft rental, and serves as a critical link for emergency medical flights and state government aviation.

Ground transportation from Grand Rapids–Itasca County Airport is well-organized, with car rental services and local taxis readily available through the FBO. The airport is situated in a region of profound natural beauty, serving as a gateway to the nearby Itasca State Park, where the Mississippi River begins its 2,552-mile journey to the Gulf. Visitors can easily access the park's iconic headwaters and numerous hiking and biking trails. Travelers are advised to coordinate all logistics in advance and to be mindful of northern Minnesota's variable weather. Despite its regional focus, Gordon Newstrom Field remains a cornerstone of the area's connectivity and its resilient aviation heritage.