An aerial view of Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport. (Mining Journal file photo)

K.I. SAWYER — The Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport plans to temporary suspend air service between Marquette and Minneapolis-St. Paul beginning after Labor Day.

Airline representatives stated in a news release they intend to restore the route in the spring.

The adjustment comes amid ongoing industry-wide efforts by airlines to optimize schedules and allocate aircraft resources in response to higher operating expenses, including increased jet fuel costs. Across the aviation sector, carriers have adjusted service frequencies and temporarily suspended select routes as part of broader network planning initiatives, according to the news release.

“While we are disappointed to see this route paused temporarily, we understand the operational and economic factors influencing airline scheduling decisions,” David Erhart, airport manager at Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport, said in the release. “We remain committed to working closely with our airline partners to support the restoration of Minneapolis-St. Paul service in (the) spring and to continue advocating for air connectivity and long-term network growth for residents, businesses and visitors throughout the Upper Peninsula.”

Passengers affected by the suspension should contact their airline directly about rebooking options, schedule changes and alternative travel arrangements. Existing service to other destinations from Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport will continue to operate as scheduled.

Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport, one of six commercial airports in the Upper Peninsula, is the only one not receiving federal subsidies through the Essential Air Service program.