Montana Airports Ranked: The Ultimate List of Best-to-Worst Places to Fly

The state of Montana, often referred to as “Big Sky Country,” is one of the most picturesque states in the United States. Montana is known for its wide-open stretches of land, gorgeous mountain ranges, and beautiful national parks worth exploring. When choosing to come visit this extraordinary state, selecting the right airport to fly in and out of is crucial. After all, flying is the fastest way to get around long distances. This means that we often begin and end our trips at the airport.

That’s why we decided to put together a list of Montana’s airports ranked. We’ve put together this list based on a variety of factors, including traveler reviews, destinations offered, the efficiency of the airport, and other considerations. With the help of our guide, you’ll be able to enjoy Montana knowing what kind of airport experience you might have!

1. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)

At the top of our list of Montana airports ranked is Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. Travelers from all over fly into BZN in order to explore the wonders of Yellowstone National Park. There are several reasons why this airport is ranked number one. For starters, passengers who travel through this airport have nothing but wonderful things to say about their experience here. BZN is both clean and efficient. Many travelers noted that the baggage claim area is wonderfully organized and that the interior is warm and welcoming. Additionally, there is a robust selection of airlines that you can fly with here, including Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines. BZN was the busiest airport in the state in 2022, per news reports by NBC Montana.

There are several dining options, including a sit-down restaurant and a grab-and-go market, within BZN. The airport also offers travelers essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi, comfortable waiting areas, and on-site car rentals. Many travelers note that the security lines here tend to move quite quickly. Overall, this is a great airport to start or end your Montana excursion.

2. Billings Logan International Airport (BIL)

Travelers looking for a charming and delightful airport experience will love Billings Logan International Airport. As second on our list, BIL is a fantastic travel hub for the city of Billings and its surrounding communities. Once again, as an international airport, you can expect to have a lot of options when it comes to flights and airlines. One of the biggest drawbacks of this airport is that getting through TSA can either be a quick experience or a long and dreadful one. It really depends on when you fly. However, once you’re inside the airport, you’ll find that it’s clean, well-lit, and recently updated. It is important to keep in mind that although this is an international airport, it is still quite small compared to other airports around the country. BIL is limited when it comes to food options, so be prepared to choose between a few dining spots.

3. Missoula Montana Airport (MSO)

Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains is Missoula Airport. MSO offers travelers the opportunity to have some of the world’s best outdoor experiences while being located only minutes away from downtown Missoula. Once again, this is a great airport for those looking to explore the gorgeous landscapes of western Montana. MSO offers nonstop flights to 14 major US markets, and you can catch flights on major airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and more. Once you’re inside the terminal, you can expect a great selection of snacks and drinks as well as a few good food options. There is also free Wi-Fi throughout the airport and convenient charging stations. 

As far as improvements go, this airport has listened to traveler feedback and has begun expanding the terminal and even the parking areas. Recently Missoula Montana Airport has seen a huge influx in passenger travel. It has even been dubbed the state’s second-busiest airport. With so many additional passengers coming in and out of this airport, MSO prioritized improving the facilities by adding additional gates and creating a larger baggage claim area.

4. Great Falls International Airport (GTF)

Fifth on our list of Montana airports ranked is Great Falls International Airport. This is an important airport for travelers living in the city of Great Falls and its surrounding areas. Travelers will fly into GTF in order to explore the untamed and gorgeous wild beauty of central Montana’s landscape. Since this is a smaller airport, only four different airlines call GTF home. You can choose to fly on Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, Delta, and United. As a much smaller airport, you won’t have as many options when it comes to direct flights. 

Additionally, since this airport is so small, you also have limited options when it comes to shopping and dining. There is only one gift shop and two different restaurants inside the airport. However, only one of the restaurants is past security. Overall, although this is not a large airport with lots of options for eating and shopping, it still offers passengers a great experience. It is easy to navigate thanks to its size, and many travelers have commented that the security checkpoint is incredibly efficient and professional. Still, the interior is a bit dated, and the facilities could use an upgrade.

5. Glacier Park International Airport (FCA)

Located just minutes away from downtown Kalispell is Glacier Park International Airport. This airport grants you access to northwest Montana and the beautiful Glacier National Park. Although this airport is home to eight different airlines and boasts many flight options, it still winds up last on our list of Montana airports ranked for several reasons. For starters, many travelers have commented on the lack of efficiency when it comes to the TSA security checkpoint.

Additionally, this airport also often deals with many delays and cancellations. It is also an incredibly small airport that doesn’t offer much in terms of food or shopping options. Overall, the airport has received a ton of backlash from travelers who have had bad experiences here. However, on a positive note, the airport does offer spectacular views upon arrival and descent. It’s also pretty easy to navigate throughout FCA.

Montana Airports Ranked: The Ultimate List of Best-to-Worst Places to Fly

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