The City of Orr’s Municipal Airport recently faced a critical need for an upgraded aviation fuel system to provide a reliable and efficient solution for its pilots. In response, Bollig Engineering collaborated closely with the airport to design and implement a cutting-edge fuel system. This new installation includes both 100LL Avgas and Jet A fuel, each with a capacity of 5,000 gallons. The system is equipped with a 24-hour self-service card reader, allowing pilots to refuel their aircraft at any time, day or night, using a credit or debit card. This modern facility not only enhances operational efficiency but also significantly improves convenience and accessibility for all aviators utilizing the airport.
Funding for the Aviation Fuel System
This airport project is distinctive because the team at Bollig Engineering pulled together a typical funding source (MnDOT Aeronautics’ State Airports funding monies) and funding from the Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation (IRRR) (an Economic Development Agency for northeastern Minnesota) to build an important revenue-generating project for the Orr Regional Airport. With the combined support of these agencies, the total cost of design and construction of the new fuel system was 100% covered, relieving the City of Orr of this significant cost.
Making Orr Tourism more Accessible & Convenient
The airport and it’s new aviation fuel system provides a reliable way for Orr visitors to enjoy fishing, hunting, business and tourism activities in Orr’s Pelican Lake and St. Louis County, at the Gateway to Voyageurs National Park. Other popular tourist activities that attracts visitors include the Orr Bogwalk, a half-mile long boardwalk through spruce bogs, cattail marshes, and ash and tamarack swamps with the unique wetland flora and fauna native to the Orr region. The Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary in Orr also offers observation, education, and interaction with Minnesota black bears in their natural habitat. The Orr Regional Airport is poised for continued growth and enhancement, reflecting its vital role in the community and the surrounding recreational areas. As the airport evolves, it remains a key asset for tourism and economic development in the region.
Future Projects at the Orr Regional Airport
We are excited to see the Orr Regional Airport continue to make improvements. Future airport projects at the Orr Regional Airport include replacement of their Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) and Runway End Identifier Light (REIL) systems, making flying at Orr Municipal Airport safer and more reliable than ever.
Minnesota Flyer Magazine – Airport of the Month
The Orr Regional Airport has been recognized as Minnesota Flyer Magazine’s October 2024, Airport of the Month! Aviation writer, Tom Foster, does a great job describing the collaborative efforts to support the airport’s development including the new fuel system and future projects that will enhance safety and accessibility. The article also notes the important role that the Orr Regional Airport plays in the local economy and local tourism. View the Minnesota Flyer article on the Orr Fueling System (PDF).