KALISPELL, Mont. (June 24, 2025) — Glacier Park International Airport (GPIA) will begin a critical runway rehabilitation project in July 2026. This essential infrastructure improvement has been meticulously planned to ensure the highest construction quality while minimizing unexpected delays and disruptions for travelers and the community.
“We understand and respect concerns about the timing of this important project, especially during the summer tourism season,” said Rob Ratkowski, GPIA Airport Director. “This decision was not made lightly. It reflects a deep commitment to maintaining the safety and reliability of our airfield while being mindful of the economic role we play in the Flathead Valley.”
The airport’s main runway was last rehabilitated in 2009. By summer 2026, the pavement will have served for 17 years, reaching the end of its expected lifespan. The runway is currently showing visible signs of distress. Postponing the work would risk further deterioration, increase costs and complexity, and jeopardize critical federal funding.
In collaboration with a nationally recognized airport engineering firm, GPIA leadership carefully evaluated all timing and closure options. After reviewing 20 years of weather data, July was determined to offer the most reliable window of dry weather and nighttime temperatures above 50°F—requirements outlined by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for successful paving, grooving, and striping.
“To avoid long-term closures or the need for early repaving, we must complete this work under the best possible conditions,” Ratkowski said “Attempting construction during spring or fall would bring a much higher chance of rain or low temperatures, increasing the risk of delays and possibly extending the runway closure beyond what airlines and travelers can reasonably accommodate.”
The project will use a rolling closure schedule that limits aircraft operations from Monday evening to Friday morning over four consecutive weeks. This method was selected as the best way to balance safety, quality, cost, and community impact while maintaining air service on peak travel days.
Had the airport chosen to risk construction during less predictable weather windows, travelers could face major disruptions, including flight cancellations and missed connections, impacting up to 2,500 passengers per day.
The runway rehabilitation project is funding-dependent and will be made possible through a significant investment from the FAA. GPIA has applied for federal grant funding to cover the project costs and is currently awaiting final approval.
Airport administrators are working closely with airline officials to facilitate early planning and maximize operating hours between closures. Extensive public involvement will occur throughout the next year to ensure travelers and stakeholders remain well-informed.
According to Ratkowski, “This project is about planning and doing things right the first time. We are committed to completing this work efficiently and minimizing the long-term impact on our passengers, partners, and regional economy.”
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ABOUT GLACIER PARK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Airline service at Glacier Park International Airport is provided by Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, and United Airlines. Cities with year-round service include Denver, Minneapolis, Salt Lake City and Seattle. Additional cities with seasonal service include Burbank, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Portland, San Diego, San Francisco and Sonoma. For more information about GPIA, please visit www.iflyglacier.com.