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Life & Work with Angela Fabish of KORB-Orr Regional Airport

Today we’d like to introduce you to Angela Fabish.

Hi Angela, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I have been City Clerk/Treasurer since July 2023. Airport Manager Ethan Olson started in June 2023. We are newish to the City of Orr. We have been both working on gaining knowledge of the Orr Regional Airport (FAA identifier KORB) which has been serving the Northland for decades, which I believe began operations in 1962. It is a gateway to Minnesota’s north woods. Nestled near Orr and Pelican Lake, the airport provides not only a convenient arrival point for pilots and visitors but also serves as an essential resource for the community — supporting tourism, local businesses, emergency services, and outdoor adventure in the region.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
To put it lightly, we’ve had a few struggles. Ethan was able to learn airport maintenance for just over a year prior to his supervisor of 28 years resigning. With myself being a new clerk entering a vacant office and with him being the only public works staff for months, we have had to hit the ground running and learning as we go. We both enjoy the airport and are trying to maintain and update what we can with a limited budget, and a lot of weather. Maintaining runways, equipment, and facilities through long winters is no small task. Still, with the dedication of staff of the City of Orr, the airport has remained reliable and welcoming for pilots year after year.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
The City of Orr proudly manages the operations of our airport and municipal liquor store, maintain the city’s infrastructure, and work to provide a safe, stable, and supportive environment for our residents.

Orr Regional Airport (KORB)isn’t just an average airstrip — it’s a vital link between rural Minnesota and the wider world. Whether it’s welcoming visitors flying in for fishing, camping, and resort stays, or supporting firefighting aircraft during wildfire season, the airport plays a diverse role in keeping the community connected and safe. Its location near Pelican Lake and Voyageurs National Park makes it a natural gateway for travelers seeking Minnesota’s wilderness treasures.

Looking ahead, the Orr Regional Airport aims to continue modernizing facilities, hosting community and pilot events and expanding opportunities for aviation and tourism. We are upgrading our AWOS system and PAPI/REILs, along with plans to build an additional T-Hangar. With increased interest in northern Minnesota as a travel destination, KORB is excited to be part of welcoming new generations of visitors while remaining a trusted resource and asset for the community.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
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Pricing:

  • Fuel-100LL $6.50
  • Fuel -Jet A $5.99
  • Nightly Hangar rental-$35
  • Tie down space- $15

Contact Info:

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