Tester Announces $4.5 Million for Local Airport Improvements

(U.S. Senate) – As part of his ongoing effort to strengthen Montana’s air travel infrastructure, Senator Jon Tester announced today that three Montana airports will receive a total of $4.5 million in federal funding for expansions, updates, and improvements.

“We rely on air travel to connect families, transport tourists, and support businesses throughout our great state,” Tester said. “These investments in Montana’s air travel infrastructure are critical to helping our economy thrive.”

The specific allocation of funding is as follows:
Stevensville Airport – $1,999,142

• For the installation of new weather reporting equipment to enhance the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations.
• For the extension and rehabilitation of runways and runway lighting systems to enhance safe airfield operations and increase visibility during harsh conditions.
• For the replacement and installation of airfield guidance sign fixtures to enhance the safety of aircraft movements.

Glacier Park International Airport – $1,204,079

• For structural enhancements to ensure the safe movement of passengers.
• For the acquisition of new land to extend and create new runways, expanding flight capacity. 
• For new training systems to help airport employees increase safety and efficiency of airport operations. 

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport – $2,324,655

• For the first phase of constructing a new runway to reduce congestion during peak traffic periods and improve operational efficiency of the airport.

The funding is being awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which provides grants to help develop and improve air travel infrastructure across the country.

Tester also announced last week that Great Falls International Airport received $8.9 million through the AIP, which will go toward constructing a new taxiway and extending a runway, among other improvements.