ROSEAU, Minnesota — The Piney-Pinecreek Border Airport, renowned for its runway that literally spans the border between the United States and Canada, is set to permanently shut down this Friday. Located in close proximity to Roseau, Minnesota, and Piney, Manitoba, the airport has been operational for 70 years.

According to a recent announcement from the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the airport has struggled with low passenger traffic and high upkeep costs, which include the need for extensive repairs to the runway, apron, and terminal. Furthermore, the international operational agreement that permits the airport to function is due to expire on December 26, and neither of the airport’s owners plans to seek its renewal.

Originally established in 1953 with a grass runway, the facility saw the addition of a paved runway in 1978, making it stand out among six border-straddling airports, as it is the only one with a paved surface. It served as a convenient access point for U.S. visitors heading into Canada for recreational activities such as hunting and fishing.

Under the terms of the international agreement, airport personnel were able to seamlessly cross the U.S.-Canada border for work obligations, without the usual customs protocols that are typically in place.