Past
Glacier Park International Airport began as a runway on farmland in 1942. Over the next several years a terminal was erected, and in 1948 the facility was completed and designated as Flathead County Airport (FCA) by the Federal Aviation Administration. The first commercial carrier, NorthwestAirlines, began service in 1950. FCA became an international airport in1970 and going forward, it was known as it is now, Glacier Park International Airport (GPIA).
Construction on the terminal expansion began in 2021. A ceremonial groundbreaking was held July 13, 2021, marking the beginning of a four-year undertaking.
Following the groundbreaking, construction began with the addition of a temporary baggage claim structure. In 2022, demolition and excavation led to the construction of the second and third story of the expanded terminal. By 2023, full construction of the terminal expansion and remodeling of the existing structure were well underway.
Phase 1A construction was completed in the spring of 2024 and a ribbon cutting ceremony was held to commemorate the occasion.
Present
The expanded terminal boasts new jet bridges and gates. Travelers are also enjoying expanded waiting areas, dining and shopping. The TSA checkpoint has also been updated to accommodate increased passenger volumes and has reduced wait times.