The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved the airport layout plan for Coleman A Young Municipal Airport (KDET) in Detroit, making it eligible for more than $100m in federal grants over the next ten years.

The plan is the first to be approved at KDET in 30 years and its approval will allow a ‘massive transformation’ at the airport.

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This will involve the creation of an air traffic control tower, hangars and several airport-related development opportunities, as well as improved taxiways and safety zones.

It will also enable the return of Benjamin O Davis Aerospace Technical High School to the airport grounds.

The decision comes after almost three years of drafting, community engagement and FAA review.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said: “City Airport has been an underutilised asset and in decline for generations.

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“Less than a decade ago, the city’s emergency manager had considered selling our airport to pay off some of the city’s debts.

“Thankfully, that didn’t happen and today, thanks to the great work of our airport leadership team and partnership with the FAA and MDOT, City is about to see new investment and new life as a centre of opportunity.”

The City plans to build several hangars at the airport with enough space for a wide range of aircraft.

Construction of the air traffic control tower is scheduled to be completed in early 2026.

KDET also plans to make safety improvements to the airfield, which includes the deployment of a new Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) at both ends of the runway.

In addition, the FAA has permitted the decommissioning of Crosswinds Runway, which is expected to create 80 acres of space for airport-related development.

With the approval in place, property owners in the area are projected to start receiving offers next month.

City officials expect to complete the acquisition process by late next year.

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