🇺🇸 Willow Run Airport

Willow Run Airport (YIP), also identified as KYIP, is a publicly-owned general aviation airport located 24 miles southwest of Detroit, Michigan, and approximately eight miles west of Detroit Metro Wayne County Airport (DTW). It is open to the public and operates 24 hours a day with a control tower. The airport is managed by the Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA), which also operates DTW.

Type of Facility and Operations: YIP serves local and transient general aviation, business, air taxi, and military operations. It is a significant cargo airport, managing over 200 million pounds of cargo annually. The airport is home to flight schools, including MANG Aero Flying Club, ATP Flight School, and Crosswinds Aviation. Fuel services include 100LL and Jet-A, and major airframe and powerplant services are available. International operations require advance notification for customs clearance.

Notable Features: The airport has two runways, RWY 5/23 (7,543 ft. x 150 ft.) and RWY 9/27, which converge at the northeast end of the field. A complex taxiway system provides access to businesses and FBOs. In January 2026, a new 7,500-foot parallel taxiway was completed, a $63.4 million project largely funded by FAA grants, aimed at improving design and operational efficiency. The airport is entirely self-sustaining and does not receive tax dollars for its operations.

Current Status: Willow Run Airport is operational, with continuous attendance and a 24-hour control tower. There is an active construction notice for the airport. The airport is located within Class D airspace, which underlies Detroit Class B airspace. Pilots are advised of potential "wrong surface" risks due to closely aligned pavement, specifically between Taxiway G and Runway 09/27. Helicopter takeoffs and landings are prohibited on the south ramp, with taxiing only permitted.

*Sources researched: nfdc.faa.gov, metroairport.com, faa.gov, airnav.com, michigan.gov*