Overview of Glacier Park International Airport
Glacier Park International Airport is a public-use airport located in Flathead County, Montana, just six miles northeast of Kalispell. The airport serves as the gateway to the beautiful Glacier National Park and is the second busiest airport in Montana after Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport.
The airport covers an area of 1,700 acres and has one runway designated 2/20, which is 9,001 feet long and 150 feet wide. It has a passenger terminal that was renovated in 2010, with the addition of new amenities and services to enhance the passengers’ experience.
In 2019, the airport served over 877,000 passengers, providing non-stop flights to 13 destinations across the United States and Canada. The airport is primarily served by Delta, United, and Alaska Airlines, with seasonal flights from American and Allegiant Airlines.
Glacier Park International Airport offers various amenities such as restaurants, cafes, gift shops, car rentals, and free Wi-Fi. The airport also provides ground transportation services, including taxis, shuttles, and rental cars.
The airport’s location makes it an excellent option for visitors coming to Glacier National Park from different parts of the country. It provides easy access to the park and nearby attractions, making it a perfect choice for leisure travelers.
In conclusion, Glacier Park International Airport is a crucial transportation hub that connects Montana’s northwest region to the rest of the United States and Canada. With its modern amenities and exceptional services, the airport provides a comfortable and convenient travel experience to its passengers.
Terminals at Glacier Park International Airport
Glacier Park International Airport has one main terminal building, which is divided into two levels. The upper level is used for departing passengers, while the lower level is used for arrivals.
The terminal features modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and a variety of dining and shopping options. Passengers can enjoy a meal or snack at the airport’s restaurant, which serves Montana-inspired cuisine.
For those who need to get some work done or catch up on emails, the airport also has a business center with computers and printing services. Additionally, there are several gift shops and boutiques where travelers can purchase souvenirs or last-minute items they may have forgotten.
The airport’s terminal also features a comfortable seating area for passengers to relax in before their flight. There are several couches and chairs scattered throughout the terminal, as well as a children’s play area for families with young children.
One unique feature of the Glacier Park International Airport terminal is the outdoor terrace, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Passengers can step outside and take in the fresh mountain air while soaking in the scenery.
Overall, the terminal at Glacier Park International Airport is a modern and welcoming space that provides travelers with everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable airport experience. Whether passengers are arriving or departing, they are sure to appreciate the amenities and conveniences offered by this top-notch airport terminal.
Airlines and Destinations
Glacier Park International Airport is served by five major airlines: Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Allegiant Air, United Airlines, and American Airlines.
Alaska Airlines offers daily nonstop flights to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, while Delta Air Lines provides daily nonstop service to Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport.
Allegiant Air operates nonstop flights to Los Angeles International Airport, Oakland International Airport, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, and Las Vegas McCarran International Airport.
United Airlines flies nonstop to both Denver International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport, while American Airlines offers seasonal nonstop service to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.
In addition to these domestic routes, Glacier Park International Airport also welcomes international flights from Canada. In the summer months, Air Canada Rouge operates nonstop flights to Vancouver International Airport.
Transportation Options at Glacier Park International Airport
Glacier Park International Airport is located in Flathead County, Montana and serves as a gateway to the beautiful Glacier National Park. There are several transportation options available for travelers arriving at the airport.
The airport offers several car rental companies such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Renting a car is a popular option for those who plan on exploring the national park or surrounding areas on their own time and schedule.
There are also shuttle services available for those who do not wish to rent a car. Shuttle services like Flathead Valley Shuttle, Montana Adventure Shuttle, and Glacier Transport provide transportation to various locations within and beyond the Flathead Valley area.
For those who want to reduce their carbon footprint, there are shuttle bus services available that are operated by the National Park Service. The shuttle buses run from early July to early September and provide transportation to various trailheads and scenic areas within the park.
Travelers can also choose to take the train to Glacier Park International Airport. Amtrak’s Empire Builder stops at the West Glacier Station, which is only a short shuttle ride away from the airport. This option provides a unique and scenic way to travel to the area.
Finally, for those who prefer a more personalized experience, there are private transportation services available such as Black Car Transportation and Montana Executive Shuttle. These services offer luxury transportation and can accommodate special requests or large groups.
In conclusion, Glacier Park International Airport offers a variety of transportation options to meet the needs of all travelers. Whether you prefer to rent a car, take a shuttle or bus, ride the train, or enjoy a private transportation service, there is an option for everyone.
Parking at Glacier Park International Airport
Glacier Park International Airport offers several parking options for travelers. The airport has a short-term and long-term parking lot located directly across from the terminal building.
The short-term parking lot is ideal for those who are dropping off or picking up passengers, as well as those who need to park for just a few hours. The parking rate for the short-term lot is $1 per half-hour, with a maximum daily rate of $12.
For those who need to park for longer periods of time, the long-term parking lot is located adjacent to the short-term lot. The parking rate for the long-term lot is $2 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $9. However, there are also weekly and monthly rates available.
In addition, there is a cell phone lot where drivers can wait for arriving passengers free of charge. The lot is located just off the main airport entrance.
Overall, Glacier Park International Airport provides convenient parking options for travelers at reasonable rates. It is recommended that travelers arrive early to allow plenty of time to find parking and make their way to their gate.
Check-In Procedures at Glacier Park International Airport
There are several ways to check-in for your flight at Glacier Park International Airport. The first option is to check-in online, which is available up to 24 hours before your departure time. This can be done through the airline’s website or mobile app, and allows you to select your seat and print your boarding pass at home.
Another option is self-service kiosks located in the terminal. These machines allow you to check-in, select your seat, and print your boarding pass. If you have any baggage to check, you can simply drop it off at the designated baggage drop-off area after using the kiosk.
If you prefer a more traditional check-in experience, you can check-in at the airline ticket counter. Here, you will need to show your ID and provide your flight information to the agent. The agent will then print your boarding pass and assist you with any baggage check-in.
Regardless of which method you choose, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow enough time for the check-in process, security screening, and boarding. Additionally, make sure to have your ID and any necessary travel documents ready to present to the agent or security personnel.
Security Measures and Tips for a Smooth Check-in
At Glacier Park International Airport, security procedures are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers.
Passengers are required to undergo a security screening before boarding their flights. This includes placing personal items like laptops, shoes, belts, and liquids in bins to be scanned.
To make the process smoother, it is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. It’s also helpful to wear easily removable shoes and avoid wearing metal accessories.
Passengers should also check the TSA guidelines on what can and cannot be brought in carry-on luggage to avoid any issues during the security screening process.
Overall, understanding and following these security measures can help passengers have a hassle-free and secure experience at Glacier Park International Airport.
Customs and Immigration at Glacier Park International Airport
For arriving passengers, the first step is to go through Customs and Border Protection. This involves presenting your passport and visa (if applicable) and answering a few questions about your trip.
After clearing Customs, you will retrieve your checked luggage and proceed through Immigration where an officer will stamp your passport and record your arrival details. From there, you will be free to exit the airport and continue on with your trip.
For departing passengers, you will check in for your flight and go through security screening before proceeding to the departure area. When leaving the country, you may need to present your passport and fill out a departure card.
Once you have cleared security and immigration, you will wait in the departure lounge until your flight is called. It is important to arrive at the airport early and allow plenty of time for these processes to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Amenities
– Food and Beverage: The airport has several food and beverage options, including a full-service restaurant, coffee shop, and vending machines.
– Shops and Services: Passengers can enjoy duty-free shopping, souvenir shopping, and access to a newsstand, car rental, and hotel booking services.
– Wi-Fi and Charging Stations: Glacier Park International Airport offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the terminal building. Passengers also have access to multiple charging stations located throughout the airport.
– Pet Relief Area: A designated outdoor pet relief area is available for travelers with pets.
– Information Desk: The airport’s information desk provides assistance with any inquiries related to arrivals, departures, and general airport information.
– ATMs: ATMs are available near the baggage claim area for passenger convenience.
Accessibility Services
Glacier Park International Airport offers a range of facilities and services to ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
These services include accessible parking spaces, wheelchair assistance, service animal relief areas, and accessible restroom facilities.
Passengers can also request assistance from airport staff through the airport’s passenger assistance program, which provides personalized assistance throughout the airport.
In addition, the airport has TTY phones for hearing-impaired passengers and visual paging services for visually impaired passengers.
All of these accessibility services are designed to ensure that every passenger can travel safely and comfortably through Glacier Park International Airport.
Connecting Flights at Glacier Park International Airport
When catching a connecting flight at Glacier Park International Airport, it’s important to plan ahead and leave ample time between flights.
The airport has a single terminal with two concourses, so navigating between gates is relatively easy. However, it’s still recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before your connecting flight’s departure time.
If your inbound flight is delayed or you’re running late, notify airline staff as soon as possible to see if they can hold the connecting flight or offer alternative options.
Be sure to grab any necessary belongings from the overhead bin or under your seat before departing the plane, and have your boarding pass ready for the connecting flight.
Follow signs to your next gate and allow enough time to go through security if necessary.
Overall, staying organized and alert, communicating with airline staff, and allowing extra time can help ensure a smooth connection at Glacier Park International Airport.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After landing at Glacier Park International Airport, passengers proceed to the baggage claim area located on the lower level of the terminal. Here, they can retrieve their checked luggage from the designated carousel based on flight and airline information.
In case of lost or damaged baggage, passengers are advised to immediately report it to the airline representative at the airport or through their online portal within 24 hours of arrival. They will be given a file reference number and contacted once their luggage is found. The airport also has a lost and found department that handles items left behind by passengers in the terminal or on the aircraft.
Passengers can inquire about their lost property by calling or emailing the airport’s lost and found office. If the item is found, it can either be picked up at the airport or shipped to the owner at their expense. It is recommended that travelers keep a record of their baggage and its contents and report any irregularities as soon as possible to avoid any inconvenience during their trip.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
Glacier Park International Airport is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all passengers and visitors. In case of an emergency, the airport has a well-established emergency response team consisting of trained professionals.
In addition, the airport has a medical facility equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, including a defibrillator, oxygen equipment, and first aid kits. The medical staff at the airport is available round the clock to provide necessary medical assistance to passengers and visitors in case of any medical emergency.
Moreover, the airport has access to medically equipped ground transportation services that can quickly transport patients to nearby hospitals if required. Passengers with medical conditions are advised to inform the airport authorities in advance, so necessary arrangements can be made for their comfort and safety.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations available within or near Glacier Park International Airport.
Here is a list of at least five hotels near the airport with their respective distance from the airport:
- Wingate by Wyndham Kalispell – 0.8 miles
- Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell – 1.1 miles
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Kalispell – 1.1 miles
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Kalispell – 1.2 miles
- Hampton Inn Kalispell – 1.2 miles
All of these hotels offer comfortable rooms and convenient amenities such as free Wi-Fi, fitness centers, and complimentary breakfasts. They are also within a short distance of popular attractions like Glacier National Park and the Whitefish Mountain Resort.
Useful Tips: Insider Secret for Navigating and Enjoying Glacier Park International Airport
Glacier Park International Airport can be a little overwhelming for the first-timers.
But don’t worry, we’ve got some insider tips to help you navigate through the busy terminals.
Make sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to account for any potential delays.
If you have extra time before your flight, explore the airport’s amenities, including local artwork displays and restaurants.
Be aware that the TSA security lines can get particularly busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
To avoid long waiting times, consider signing up for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, which fast-tracks you through security without having to remove your shoes, belts or laptops.
And finally, don’t forget to bring along some comfortable walking shoes – Glacier Park International Airport is relatively large, and you may end up doing a lot of walking to make it to your gate.
Contact Information
Airport Administration: (406) 758-7701
Lost and Found: (406) 257-5999
Airport Police: (406) 257-2966
Parking Information: (406) 758-2276
Ground Transportation: (406) 212-2420
TSA Lost and Found: (406) 257-2465
Airport Operations: (406) 756-2800
Airports Near Glacier Park International Airport
While Glacier Park International Airport is the main airport serving the area, there are a few other airports within driving distance:
- Missoula International Airport (MSO) – Located approximately 2 hours south of Glacier Park International Airport, Missoula International Airport offers a wider variety of flights and airlines. Transportation options include rental cars, shuttle services, and taxis.
- Great Falls International Airport (GTF) – Located approximately 3 hours east of Glacier Park International Airport, Great Falls International Airport also offers a variety of flights and airlines. Transportation options include rental cars, shuttle services, and taxis.
- Kalispell City Airport (S27) – Located just across the highway from Glacier Park International Airport, Kalispell City Airport is a smaller, general aviation airport that primarily serves private planes. It does not offer commercial flights.
If you are flying into one of these airports and need to get to Glacier Park International Airport, transportation options include rental cars, shuttle services, and taxis. Some hotels in the area may also offer airport transportation services.