Overview of Great Falls International Airport
Great Falls International Airport (GTF) is a public-use airport located three miles southwest of the central business district of Great Falls, Montana. It serves the Great Falls area and surrounding communities, including Cascade County, which has a population of more than 82,000 people. GTF is the third busiest airport in Montana and is operated by the Great Falls International Airport Authority.
The airport has one terminal building with four gates and offers nonstop flights to five major cities in the United States. These cities include Denver, Minneapolis, Salt Lake City, Seattle, and Las Vegas. GTF is also a hub for several regional commuter airlines, including Delta Connection, United Express, and Horizon Air.
In addition to its commercial air service, GTF also serves as a hub for military aviation operations. The Montana Air National Guard and 120th Fighter Wing are located on the airport’s grounds, and the airport hosts several military aircraft each year.
Great Falls International Airport features a variety of amenities for travelers, including free Wi-Fi, a gift shop, a restaurant, and a lounge. The airport also offers rental car services from several major providers, including Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Enterprise.
Overall, Great Falls International Airport serves as an important transportation hub for the Great Falls region and surrounding areas. With its convenient location, commercial and military aviation services, and range of amenities for travelers, GTF is a vital asset to the local community and the state of Montana.
Terminals at Great Falls International Airport
Great Falls International Airport has a main terminal building that houses two concourses, A and B. Concourse A is primarily used by Delta Airlines for their flights and Concourse B is used by other airlines such as United, Alaska, and Allegiant.
The airport has a total of 10 gates with jet bridges and an additional 2 gates that are used for smaller regional aircraft that require passengers to walk out onto the tarmac. The terminal has all the necessary amenities for passenger convenience, such as restrooms, food vendors, gift shops, and charging stations.
Passengers traveling through the airport also have access to free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. In addition, there is a USO lounge available for active military personnel and their families to relax in while they wait for their flights.
For those who need special assistance, the airport offers a variety of services such as wheelchair assistance, special parking spots, and visual paging assistance. Great Falls International Airport also has a TSA PreCheck lane, making the security process quicker and more efficient for eligible travelers.
Overall, the terminal buildings at Great Falls International Airport provide essential services and amenities for travelers passing through the airport. With its modern design and convenient features, passengers can enjoy a comfortable and stress-free experience while waiting for their flights.
Airlines and Destinations
The Great Falls International Airport is served by multiple airlines, including Delta, United, Alaska, and Allegiant.
Delta has daily flights to Salt Lake City, Seattle, and Minneapolis. United offers non-stop service to Denver and Chicago.
Alaska Airlines operates flights to Seattle. Allegiant provides seasonal flights to Las Vegas, Phoenix-Mesa, and Oakland.
International destinations can be reached with connections from major hubs, such as Salt Lake City and Seattle.
It is important to check with each airline for any seasonal changes in flight schedules or destination offerings.
Transportation Options at Great Falls International Airport
Great Falls International Airport (GTF) offers several transportation options to get you to your final destination. If you’re coming from out of town, renting a car is a great option. There are several car rental agencies on-site, including Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis.
If you prefer not to rent a car, there are also several shuttle services available. Big Sky Shuttle operates seven days a week and provides door-to-door service to anywhere in the Great Falls area. Another option is Airport Shuttle Service, which offers group rates and personalized service.
If you’re looking for more affordable transportation, there are several bus options available as well. Greyhound Lines operates several daily routes to and from Great Falls, with connections to major cities across the country. Additionally, Montana Transit provides local bus service throughout the Great Falls area.
For those traveling longer distances, Amtrak’s Empire Builder line makes a stop in nearby Shelby, Montana. The Empire Builder runs from Chicago to Seattle and is a great option for those looking to explore the northern United States.
Overall, Great Falls International Airport provides a range of transportation options to meet the needs of any traveler. Whether you prefer the convenience of a rental car or the affordability of public transportation, you’re sure to find a solution that works for you.
Parking at Great Falls International Airport
Great Falls International Airport offers different parking options to accommodate the needs of travelers. The airport has four parking lots: the Short-Term Lot, the Long-Term Lot, the Econo Lot, and the Credit Card lot.
The Short-Term Lot is suitable for travelers who are dropping off or picking up passengers since it is located in front of the terminal building and offers free parking for the first 15 minutes. For longer stays, the Long-Term Lot is the best option, which charges $9 per day. The Econo Lot is another alternative that costs $7 per day. However, it is farther from the terminal building, so shuttle service is provided to transport passengers from the lot to the main terminal.
Lastly, there is also a Credit Card lot that is located adjacent to the Econo Lot. This parking area is reserved for customers of certain credit cards and offers a discounted rate of $5 per day. All parking lots at Great Falls International Airport operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and overnight parking is allowed.
Passengers should also note that there is a cell phone waiting area located near the terminal building where drivers can wait free of charge until they receive a call from an arriving passenger. Overall, Great Falls International Airport provides convenient and affordable parking options for all types of travelers.
Check-In Procedures
At Great Falls International Airport, passengers have several options for check-in. The airport offers online check-in, self-service kiosks, and traditional check-in counters.
Passengers can utilize the online check-in option up to 24 hours in advance of their flight. This allows them to print out their boarding pass and avoid waiting in long lines at the airport.
Self-service kiosks are available in the terminal and offer a quick and easy way to check-in for those who prefer not to use online check-in. Passengers can simply scan their boarding pass or enter their confirmation code to access their reservation and print their boarding pass.
For those who prefer the traditional check-in method, counters are available in the terminal staffed with airline representatives who can assist with any questions or issues.
Regardless of the check-in method chosen, passengers are required to present their government-issued identification and any necessary travel documents such as a passport or visa.
It is important to note that each airline may have its own specific requirements for check-in procedures, so it is recommended to check with the airline before arriving at the airport. However, regardless of the method chosen, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to their scheduled departure time to ensure enough time for check-in and security screening.
Security Measures at Great Falls International Airport
At Great Falls International Airport, security procedures are strictly enforced to ensure the safety of all passengers and employees.
Before entering the security checkpoint, travelers are required to remove their shoes, belts, jackets, and any metal items from their pockets.
All bags and electronics must be placed in separate bins for screening.
To speed up the process, it is recommended that passengers wear slip-on shoes and pack their liquids in a clear plastic bag.
Additionally, travelers can enroll in TSA PreCheck for expedited screening.
Customs and Immigration Process at Great Falls International Airport
Arriving passengers must clear Customs and Immigration before entering the United States. They will be directed to the appropriate area by airport personnel. Travelers should have their passport, visa, and customs declaration form ready for inspection.
After clearing Customs and Immigration, passengers can collect their luggage and proceed to the airport’s public area. For departing passengers, they need to pass through airport security first before proceeding to their designated departure gates. They may also need to complete customs formalities at their destination country.
Travelers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow ample time for all necessary procedures. The airport provides customer service representatives to assist passengers with any questions they may have regarding customs and immigration requirements and procedures.
Amenities:
– Free Wi-Fi
– Food and Beverage options such as restaurants, cafes, and vending machines
– Retail shops including gift shops and newsstands
– ATM machines and currency exchange services
– Pet relief area
– Business center with fax, printing, and copying services
– Charging stations for electronic devices
– Conference rooms and meeting spaces for rent
– Public art displays throughout the airport
– Wheelchair accessibility and assistance for passengers with disabilities
Great Falls International Airport offers a variety of amenities for the comfort and convenience of its passengers. With free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal, travelers can stay connected while waiting for their flights. There are food and beverage options to suit all tastes, including restaurants, cafes, and vending machines. Retail shops offer a range of goods, from souvenirs to reading materials. The airport also features ATM machines and currency exchange services for those in need of financial assistance. For passengers traveling with pets, there is a designated relief area. Those on business can make use of the airport’s business center for fax, printing, and copying services. There are also charging stations for electronic devices and conference rooms and meeting spaces available for rent. Public art displays throughout the airport provide a visually stimulating environment for all travelers. The airport is wheelchair accessible and offers assistance for passengers with disabilities.
Accessibility Services
Great Falls International Airport is committed to providing facilities and services that ensure a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
The airport offers accessible parking spaces, terminal entrances, and restrooms, as well as wheelchairs, oxygen tanks, and other equipment for rent. There are also trained personnel available to assist with boarding, deplaning, and navigating the airport.
Passengers with disabilities or mobility issues are encouraged to contact the airport ahead of time to arrange any necessary accommodations and ensure a smooth travel experience.
Connecting Flights at Great Falls International Airport
Connecting flights at Great Falls International Airport require passengers to disembark their current flight and board a new one to reach their final destination.
When booking connecting flights, ensure that there is a sufficient layover time between the two flights as this will give you enough time to pass through security and reach your gate.
Upon arrival at Great Falls International Airport, follow the signs to the connecting flights area and check the screens for flight information and gate numbers.
If you are unsure about which gate to go to or have any other questions, do not hesitate to ask airport staff for assistance.
It is also important to have all necessary documents, such as boarding passes and identification, ready and easily accessible to avoid any delay in the process.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After your flight has landed, follow the signs to baggage claim. There will be overhead screens displaying your flight number and the corresponding baggage carousel.
Once you have located your luggage, inspect it to make sure there are no damages or missing items. In the event that your baggage is lost or damaged, report it to the airline’s baggage service office located adjacent to baggage claim.
You will need to fill out a report detailing the issue and provide any necessary information, such as your contact information and flight itinerary. The airline will then work to locate your lost baggage or compensate you for any damages.
If you accidentally leave an item on the plane, contact the airport’s lost and found office. They will assist with locating and returning any lost property.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency, the airport has a well-trained airport rescue firefighting team that is equipped to handle any situation.
The team is available 24/7 and can respond within minutes to any emergency.
Furthermore, there are medical facilities available at the airport for passengers who require medical attention.
These facilities are staffed by trained medical personnel who can provide basic medical treatment and first aid.
If a passenger needs more advanced medical treatment, they will be transported to the nearest hospital by ambulance or helicopter.
In addition, there are automated external defibrillators (AEDs) located throughout the terminal for emergency use.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations available within or near Great Falls International Airport to make your travel more convenient and comfortable.
Here are five hotels located within a few miles from the airport that offer various amenities and services:
- Staybridge Suites Great Falls – 1.5 miles away
- Hampton Inn Great Falls – 1.6 miles away
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Great Falls – 1.7 miles away
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Great Falls – 2.0 miles away
- Comfort Inn & Suites Market – Airport – 2.1 miles away
Each of these hotels provides free shuttle service to and from the airport, complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and other facilities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants.
Useful Tips
Navigating Great Falls International Airport can be a breeze with a few insider tips.
First, arrive early to allow enough time for parking, security, and finding your gate.
Consider downloading the airport’s mobile app for up-to-date information on flight schedules and gate changes.
If traveling with a pet, know that there are designated pet relief areas both inside and outside the terminal.
For a stress-free experience, pack light and bring only essential items in your carry-on luggage.
Lastly, take advantage of the airport’s restaurants, shops, and free Wi-Fi during your wait.
Contact Information
– Airport Administration: (406) 727-3404
– Lost and Found: (406) 727-3408
– Parking: (406) 727-5511
– TSA: (406) 452-5282
For a full list of contact information, including airlines and car rentals, please visit the Great Falls International Airport website.
Airports Near Great Falls International Airport
- Helena Regional Airport: Distance: 80 miles. Transportation options: Car rental, taxi.
- Lewis and Clark Regional Airport (Helena): Distance: 83 miles. Transportation options: Car rental, taxi.
- Yellowstone International Airport (Billings): Distance: 219 miles. Transportation options: Car rental, bus, shuttle service.
- Bert Mooney Airport (Butte): Distance: 105 miles. Transportation options: Car rental, taxi.
These airports provide additional options for travelers flying to or from the Great Falls area. While the Great Falls International Airport may offer direct flights to certain destinations, these nearby airports may have more frequent flights or additional options for connecting flights. Be sure to consider transportation time and cost when deciding which airport to choose.