GPI Airport Insights & Guide
Key GPI Airport Topics:- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know GPI Airport
Embark on your Montana adventure through Glacier Park International Airport (GPI), the closest airport to Glacier National Park, just 30 miles away. This guide simplifies your GPI experience, from flight tracking to terminal services, ensuring a seamless journey. Notably, GPI stands out with its unique display of local art, capturing the spirit of Montana and offering travelers a glimpse into the region's culture right from the start.
Discover everything GPI has to offer, including parking, dining, and shopping options, to enhance your airport visit. Our concise guide is your key to a stress-free travel experience.
Explore a wider range of airports with the Comprehensive Airport Guide at iFly.
iFly Tip: Plan ahead and make the most of your time at the airport with our helpful airport tips.
Navigating GPI's Terminals
Kalispell Airport has one terminal building with two levels. The terminal has 6 gates and is used by major airlines such as Alaska Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines. The terminal building is divided into two concourses, A and B. Concourse A has gates A1 to A3 and Concourse B has gates B4 to B6.
Upon arrival, passengers can find baggage claim on the lower level of the terminal. Ground transportation, including rental cars, taxis, and shuttles, can be found outside the terminal building.
Passengers who need to transfer between flights can easily do so within the terminal building. The gates are located in close proximity to each other, and there are plenty of signs and maps to help passengers navigate the terminal.
For those who need to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping, there are several options available in the terminal building. Passengers can find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops both before and after security.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
GPI has only one terminal, making it easy for travelers to navigate. Upon arrival, passengers can easily find baggage claim, ground transportation, and other airport facilities within the terminal building. There is no need for shuttle buses or trains to get between terminals. However, if you need to travel to another airport, such as Missoula International Airport, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi from GPI to the desired airport. The travel time between GPI and Missoula International Airport is approximately 2 hours by car.
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Glacier Park International Airport (GPI) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from GPI-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"Glacier Park International Airport is relatively small, but it can still be a bit confusing if you're not familiar with it. The terminal layout is straightforward, with the main concourse splitting into two wings. Make sure to check the flight information screens frequently as gates can change last minute." — John D., Whitefish, MT, August 2023
"If you're flying out of GPI during peak tourist season, give yourself some extra time to navigate through the terminal. The security lines can get long, especially in the summer months when the airport is busier." — Emily R., Kalispell, MT, July 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The airport is about 15 minutes from downtown Kalispell. I recommend using a rideshare service for convenience, especially if you have a lot of luggage. There are also shuttle services available if you're heading to one of the nearby resorts." — Michael T., Columbia Falls, MT, September 2023
"If you’re renting a car, book in advance, especially during the summer. The rental car counters can get quite busy, and availability can be limited." — Lisa M., Bigfork, MT, July 2023
Parking
"Parking at GPI is pretty straightforward. There are short-term and long-term parking options right in front of the terminal. The long-term lot is a short walk away, and it’s reasonably priced compared to larger airports." — David S., Kalispell, MT, October 2023
"If you're picking someone up, use the cell phone lot to wait until they're ready to be picked up. It’s free and saves you from circling around the terminal." — Rachel K., Whitefish, MT, November 2023
Inside the Airport
"The food options at GPI are limited, so if you have dietary restrictions or preferences, consider bringing your own snacks. There’s a small café and a bar, but choices can be slim, especially during off-peak hours." — Anna L., Kalispell, MT, December 2023
"Don’t miss the gift shop if you need last-minute souvenirs. They have a good selection of local crafts and Glacier National Park memorabilia." — Mark P., Columbia Falls, MT, January 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Check the weather conditions before you head to the airport, especially in winter. Snowstorms can cause delays, and it’s better to be prepared for any changes in your travel plans." — Karen W., Bigfork, MT, February 2024
"Try to arrive at least two hours before your flight, even though GPI is a smaller airport. Security lines can still get long, and it’s always better to have some buffer time." — Brian H., Kalispell, MT, March 2024
"Use the TSA PreCheck line if you have it. It can save you a lot of time, especially during peak travel seasons." — Jessica F., Whitefish, MT, April 2024
iFly Tip: Learn about the intricacies of flying from a pilot's point of view on our takeoff to landing page.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
Kalispell Airport offers several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. The airport has designated curbside areas for passenger pick-up and drop-off, but parking is not allowed in these areas. Drivers must remain with their vehicles at all times and are not permitted to leave their vehicles unattended. Violators may be ticketed or towed.
If you need to wait for arriving passengers, the airport has a cell-phone waiting area located just a short distance from the terminal. This area allows drivers to park their vehicles for free and wait until their passengers have arrived and are ready to be picked up. Drivers must remain with their vehicles while waiting in the cell-phone waiting area.
Parking Facilities & Options
GPI offers several parking options for travelers. There are two parking lots, the Short-Term Lot and the Long-Term Lot, both located adjacent to the terminal building. The Short-Term Lot is ideal for those who need to park for a few hours, while the Long-Term Lot is perfect for those who need to park for several days or more.
For those who prefer not to park on-site, off-airport parking is also available. This can be a more economical option for travelers who are looking to save money on parking fees. Many off-airport parking facilities offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it a convenient option for travelers.
If you are waiting to pick up a passenger, there is a designated Cell Phone Waiting Area located just outside the terminal building. This area allows you to wait in your vehicle until your passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up.
Handicapped parking is available in both the Short-Term and Long-Term Lots, as well as in the Cell Phone Waiting Area. There are designated parking spaces located close to the terminal building for those who require accessible parking.
Transportation Options
The airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to help travelers get to their destinations quickly and easily:
- Car Rentals: Several car rental companies, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National, are located at the airport. The rental car counters can be found in the main terminal building. It's advisable to book your car in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel periods.
- Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with the taxi stand located outside the main terminal building, near the baggage claim area. Taxis are metered, and fares vary depending on your destination. For a smooth experience, it is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
- Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are available for pickup at the airport. However, there are some restrictions on where these services can pick up passengers, so it is essential to check with the driver before booking your ride. These services offer a more affordable transportation option compared to traditional taxis.
- Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles provide door-to-door service and can be booked in advance or upon arrival at the airport. Pickup areas for shuttles are located outside the main terminal building. This option is particularly convenient for those traveling to nearby hotels or cities. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
- Public Transportation: The airport is served by the Skyline bus system. The bus stop is located outside the main terminal building, near the taxi stand. Skyline buses run on a regular schedule, providing an affordable and convenient option for travelers. Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver or through the Skyline bus system's official channels.
iFly Tip: Plan ahead for a smooth trip with your toddler by reading our comprehensive guide.
Airport Hotels
Looking for a comfortable and convenient hotel near the airport? We've got you covered. Our guide provides an overview of the best hotel options, offering top-notch amenities and comfortable rooms, all conveniently located near the airport. Whether you're a business traveler needing a convenient place to stay, a leisure traveler seeking comfort, or have an early flight and need a hotel close to the airport, we can help you find the best hotel to suit your needs. Ready to explore your options? Check out our Glacier Airport Hotels now.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
GPI Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers. If you're looking for a quick bite to eat, head to the Great Northern Cafe for a delicious sandwich or salad. For a heartier meal, check out the 5518' Kitchen & Bar, which offers a range of entrees and cocktails. If you're in the mood for something sweet, stop by Montana Coffee Traders for a pastry and a cup of coffee.
When it comes to shopping, the airport has you covered. Pick up a souvenir at the Glacier Park Trading Co. or browse the latest bestsellers at The Bookstore. Need to stock up on snacks for your flight? Visit the Rocky Mountain Outfitters store for a selection of snacks and travel essentials.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Glacier Park International Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Glacier Park International Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
- Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located in the terminal for your convenience.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Glacier Park International Airport features a designated children's play area equipped with toys and games.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible parking, and accessible restrooms for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
- ATM: An ATM is available in the terminal, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
- Medical Help: In case of a medical emergency, the airport is equipped to provide medical assistance to passengers.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight. At Kalispell Airport, there are several ways to get flight status information.
One way is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply look for your flight number on the display to see the status of your flight.
Another way to stay informed is to download your airline's mobile phone app. Many airlines offer push notifications, text messages, or email alerts about departure delays, cancellations, or gate changes. These alerts can be customized to your preferences and will keep you informed about any changes to your flight status.
Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at GPI by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Glacier Park International Airport (GPI) is located in Kalispell, Montana, United States.
- Terminals: The airport has one terminal building that handles all domestic and international flights.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines at GPI include Delta Air Lines, Alaska Airlines, and United Airlines. For a full list of airlines, visit the GPI Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Glacier Park International handles approximately 2,500 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport operates around 50 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from GPI are Seattle, Denver, Minneapolis, Salt Lake City, and Las Vegas.
- Hub Status: Delta Air Lines and Alaska Airlines use GPI as a hub for their regional flights.
Airport History
Glacier Park International Airport, located in Kalispell, Montana, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1912: The airport was first established as a grassy landing strip for early aviators.
- 1928: The airport was officially named the Flathead County Airport.
- 1941: The airport was taken over by the United States Army Air Forces and used as a training base during World War II.
- 1946: The airport was returned to civilian control and renamed the Glacier Park International Airport.
- 1960s: The airport underwent major renovations and expansions to accommodate the growing number of passengers and airlines.
- 1990s: The airport continued to expand and modernize, adding new terminals and amenities for travelers.
- 2010: The airport celebrated its 100th anniversary with a series of events and activities.
- 2019: The airport announced plans for a new $100 million terminal expansion project to further improve the airport's facilities and services.
Today, Kalispell Airport serves as a vital transportation hub for the Flathead Valley and surrounding areas, connecting travelers to destinations across the country and around the world.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Glacier Park International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: GPI
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 406-257-5994
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Glacier Park International Airport, 4170 US-2, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Glacier Park International Airport Q&A
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