DETROIT – Willow Run Airport generates close to 1,000 jobs and $123 million in total economic impact throughout Michigan, according to a study released Tuesday by the University of Michigan-Dearborn and Wayne County Airport Authority.
Lee Redding, associate professor of business economics at UM-Dearborn, in partnership with researchers from iLabs, estimated the airport's impact by measuring revenue, incomes and jobs.
"The cargo capacity available at Willow Run makes Michigan a more attractive place for business," Redding said. "Willow Run Airport connects Michigan manufacturing companies to the world, making quick deliveries of parts and finished products more viable."
Though passenger travel is limited at Willow Run, an estimated 54.4 million pounds of air cargo depart the airport annually.
"It's clear that Willow Run Airport provides substantial economic benefits for our region," airport authority CEO Thomas Naughton said. "Additionally, by capturing a considerable amount of the region's cargo and general aviation air traffic, it helps Detroit Metropolitan Airport provide on-time flights."
Detroit Metropolitan Airport has an impact of $10.2 billion according to a 2014 study.