Chippewa County International Airport

Overview

Chippewa County International Airport (CIU) serves as a gateway to Michigan's eastern Upper Peninsula. Located in Kincheloe, approximately 10 miles south of Sault Ste. Marie, this airport primarily handles general aviation, charter flights, and limited commercial service. It is an international port of entry, meaning private aircraft arriving from Canada or overseas can clear customs here—a convenient feature for pilots and passengers crossing the border. The airport occupies part of the former Kincheloe Air Force Base, which closed in 1977 and was later redeveloped into a civilian airfield. Today, it supports regional business travel, seasonal tourists, and residents of Chippewa County. While not a major hub, it offers a stress-free alternative to larger airports for those heading to the Soo Locks, Tahquamenon Falls, or the vast outdoor recreation areas of the Upper Peninsula.

Location & Access

The airport is situated at 3000 Airport Drive in Kincheloe, Michigan, off M-80. From I-75, take exit 378 (M-80 east) and follow signs for about 4 miles. The drive from downtown Sault Ste. Marie takes roughly 15 minutes; from St. Ignace or the Mackinac Bridge, allow 45 minutes to an hour. The airport is also accessible from Canada via the International Bridge at Sault Ste. Marie, followed by a short drive south. On-site parking is available in a well-lit lot directly in front of the terminal. There are no rental car counters inside the terminal, but major rental agencies serve the area—reservations can be made in advance and courtesy shuttles typically meet arriving flights. Taxis and ride-shares are limited; many visitors arrange private transport or are met by hosts.

Facilities

Though a small facility, Chippewa County International Airport provides essential amenities for a comfortable travel experience. The terminal is wheelchair accessible, with designated parking spots close to the entrance, automatic doors, and an accessible restroom. For families, a changing table is available in one of the restrooms. Clean, standard toilets are maintained throughout the building. Complimentary Wi-Fi is offered in the waiting area, allowing passengers to check email or stream content while waiting. There is no full-service restaurant or café on site, but vending machines stock snacks and drinks. The airport lacks a dedicated business lounge or duty-free shop, given its size and traffic volume. However, the staff are known for being helpful, and the quiet atmosphere makes it a pleasant place to wait.

About the Region

The Eastern Upper Peninsula is a land of dense forests, clear lakes, and rugged shorelines. Kincheloe sits inland, but the region is defined by its proximity to the Great Lakes: Lake Superior to the north and Lake Huron to the south. The Soo Locks, just north of town, are a marvel of engineering that allow ships to bypass the rapids of the St. Marys River between Lake Superior and Lake Huron. They draw thousands of visitors each year. Tahquamenon Falls State Park, about an hour’s drive east, features the spectacular Upper and Lower Falls—among the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. Outdoor enthusiasts come for world-class fishing (walleye, pike, trout), hunting, snowmobiling, and hiking. In winter, the area sees heavy snowfall, making it a destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The region also has a rich Native American and French-Canadian heritage, reflected in local museums and the historic town of Sault Ste. Marie. Across the border, the Canadian city of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, offers additional shopping and dining options, accessible via the International Bridge.

Practical Information

Chippewa County International Airport is not open 24 hours a day; its operating hours vary seasonally. The terminal opens approximately one hour before the first scheduled departure and closes after the last arrival. Travelers should verify current hours on the airport’s official website: https://www.airciu.com/. For general inquiries, call +1 906-495-5631. The airport has no on-site hotel, but several chain motels are located along I-75 in Kincheloe and Sault Ste. Marie. Because the facility is small, there are no security lines to speak of for commercial flights—but private and charter passengers should coordinate with their operators. Overall, CIU provides a simple, straightforward travel experience for those heading to the scenic and remote beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.