Sawyer County officials are currently awaiting a crucial response from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding forecast data that will impact future airport planning. During a recent government meeting, it was emphasized that the FAA's confirmation is essential for consultants to finalize the airport's master plan.

The discussions highlighted that the airport is likely to be classified as a C-2 category, which indicates a need for larger safety areas and potentially a longer runway. This classification is not a request from the county but rather a determination based on data that the FAA must validate. If confirmed, this classification will necessitate planning for future expansions, possibly within the next decade.

The current runway improvements are designed to last for the next ten years, but the implications of the C-2 classification could lead to significant changes in the airport's infrastructure. The county is preparing for the possibility of accommodating larger aircraft, including C-3 and C-4 planes, which could alter the airport's operational capabilities.

As the county awaits the FAA's decision, officials remain focused on ensuring that the airport can meet future demands while maintaining safety and efficiency. The outcome of this classification will be pivotal in shaping the airport's development strategy moving forward.