Kalispell City Airport

Overview

Kalispell City Airport (FAA: S25) is a public-use general aviation airport located in the heart of Kalispell, Montana. Unlike the larger Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) which handles scheduled commercial flights, this city-owned facility is primarily used by private pilots, flight schools, charter services, and corporate aviation. It serves as a convenient hub for local aviation enthusiasts and visitors arriving by light aircraft who wish to explore the Flathead Valley and the surrounding Rocky Mountain wilderness. The airport features a single asphalt runway (2/20) measuring 3,500 feet in length, suitable for most single-engine and light twin-engine aircraft. With its location near downtown Kalispell, it offers quick access to the city's amenities and is a practical alternative for those who prefer general aviation over scheduled airline service.

Location & Access

Kalispell City Airport is situated within the city limits of Kalispell, Montana, approximately 1 mile southwest of the downtown area. The airport is easily accessible via Airport Road, which connects to US Highway 93, the main north-south artery through the Flathead Valley. The address is 1540 Airport Road, and the airport's location makes it a short drive from the city center—less than 5 minutes by car. For travelers coming from other parts of the valley, the airport is about 10 miles south of Whitefish and roughly 30 miles south of the West Glacier entrance to Glacier National Park. The Flathead Valley is served by Interstate 90 from the south, but the airport itself is not directly on an interstate; however, US 93 provides a direct link. Parking is available on-site for visitors and pilots, with a dedicated car park that includes designated accessible spaces. Since this is a general aviation airport, there is no commercial bus or shuttle service directly to the terminal, but taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Kalispell. For those staying in nearby communities, renting a car is the most practical option.

Facilities

The airport provides a range of facilities designed to meet the needs of general aviation users. The terminal building houses a comfortable waiting area with seating and restrooms. Amenities confirmed include a wheelchair-accessible car park, a wheelchair-accessible entrance, and a wheelchair-accessible toilet, ensuring that the airport is navigable for passengers with reduced mobility. Additionally, there are standard toilet facilities and a changing table, making the airport family-friendly. On-site services include fueling (aviation gasoline and jet fuel are available from self-service pumps) and a pilot lounge with basic amenities. The airport also has a small flight school and offers aircraft parking in tiedown spaces and hangars. While there are no commercial food or beverage outlets within the terminal, vending machines are often available, and several restaurants and cafes are located a short drive away in downtown Kalispell. Wi-Fi access may be limited, so visitors should plan accordingly. The airport's proximity to Kalispell means that full-service hotels and other traveler amenities are just minutes away.

About the Region

Kalispell is the largest city in the Flathead Valley, nestled in northwestern Montana at the base of the Swan and Mission mountain ranges. The area is renowned for its outdoor recreational opportunities, with Flathead Lake—the largest natural freshwater lake in the western United States—lying just south of the city. Glacier National Park, one of America's most iconic national parks, is only about 30 miles to the north. The region attracts visitors for hiking, fishing, skiing (at nearby Whitefish Mountain Resort), and wildlife viewing. The valley is also home to a vibrant arts scene, historic downtown Kalispell, and the Conrad Mansion Museum. The airport serves as a gateway for private pilots exploring the Rockies, and its location provides unparalleled access to the natural beauty of the Northern Rockies. The climate features warm, dry summers and cold, snowy winters, with peak seasons for general aviation traffic typically aligning with summer tourism (May through September) and the winter sports season (December through March). The airport's role in the local community is supported by organizations such as the Kalispell Aero Club and various aviation businesses that maintain a presence on the field.

Practical Information

• Address: 1540 Airport Road, Kalispell, MT 59901
• Phone: +1 406-755-4859
• Website: City of Kalispell Airport Page
• Hours: The airport is open to air traffic 24 hours a day, but the terminal building may not be staffed around the clock. The airport is open all days of the week, but peak hours when staff are typically available are between 4 pm and 5 pm local time. For after-hours inquiries or emergency services, the phone number listed provides access to airport management.

Pilots should note that prior permission may be required for certain aircraft operations, and it is advisable to contact the airport manager for specific requirements. The airport does not offer customs services, so international arrivals must clear customs at a designated port of entry. For the latest fuel prices and temporary flight restrictions, consult the airport's website or call ahead. The facility is managed by the City of Kalispell's Airport Department, which oversees maintenance and operations.