Western Montana’s Glacier Country is home to two primary airports that serve group and FIT travel—Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell and Missoula Montana Airport (MSO).

UPDATE: If planning a tour in July 2026, Glacier Park International will undergo a runway rehabilitation project, temporarily affecting flight schedules. While important to the airport’s long-term operation, this project may require adjustments when planning itineraries to Glacier National Park and northwest Montana.

A red bus tour on the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park.

Key Details:

  • Closure dates: July 6 – 31, 2026
  • Closure times: Runways closed Mondays at 6 p.m. through Fridays at 10 a.m. for four consecutive weeks.
  • Open for service: Flights will continue Fridays – Mondays, with approximately 60% of regular service available.
  • Impact: Limited weekday air access into Kalispell during July; schedules will reflect closures.

Planning Solutions for Group Travel

  • Missoula Montana Airport (MSO): Two hours south of Kalispell, MSO offers direct flights from major U.S. hubs. Groups can easily connect by motorcoach to Whitefish, Kalispell and Glacier National Park, while enjoying the scenic journey through Western Montana.
  • Great Falls International Airport (GTF): About four hours southeast, GTF provides another option with direct access to Glacier National Park’s east entrance at St. Mary.
  • Amtrak’s Empire Builder: Whitefish is a scheduled stop on the Chicago–Seattle/Portland route, providing rail access for groups. Other stops in Western Montana include West Glacier, East Glacier Park, Libby, Cut Bank and Essex.

Recommendations for Operators

  • Book early. Historically, July is the busiest travel month, and limited flight windows will increase demand.
  • Consider alternative dates. May, June, August, September and early October offer excellent conditions for group tours and international visitors who have more flexibility. These months offer fewer crowds and unique seasonal experiences.
  • Build in flexibility. Using Missoula as your arrival airport allows groups to seamlessly combine Glacier National Park with other Western Montana highlights, including the Flathead Indian Reservation and Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the West. You can also extend your trip into the beautiful Bitterroot Valley, where the TV series “Yellowstone” was filmed.

Western Montana Is Open
While flight schedules will be adjusted in July 2026, Western Montana remains accessible and welcoming for groups and international visitors. With proactive planning and alternative gateways, your travelers can experience the best of our region—Glacier National Park, vibrant downtowns throughout Western Montana and unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Here are some FAQ for group and international tour operators and planning solutions:

What are the closure dates and times?

  • Dates: July 6 – 31, 2026
  • Times: Runways will be closed Mondays at 6 p.m. through Fridays at 10 a.m. for four consecutive weeks.
  • Open: Friday late mornings through Monday afternoons, with approximately 60% of flights still operating during those windows.
  • Specific closure weeks:
    • July 6 – 10
    • July 13 – 17
    • July 20 – 24
    • July 27 – 31

How will this impact my group’s flights?

  • Limited weekday flight options into Kalispell (FCA).
  • Friday – Monday flights remain available, but demand will be high and possibly expensive.
  • Advance booking is strongly encouraged, as last-minute space will be limited.

Should we avoid planning trips to Western Montana in July 2026?

Not at all. Western Montana is very much open and ready to welcome groups and international visitors. This project simply means planning ahead is essential. If your itinerary is flexible, consider travel in May, June, August, September or early October—all excellent months for group tours with fewer crowds and memorable seasonal highlights.

What are the best alternative airports?

  • Missoula Montana Airport (MSO): Located about two hours south of Kalispell, MSO offers direct flights from major U.S. hubs. It’s a convenient alternative for groups, and will offer scenic landscapes and attractions en route to Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake and other Western Montana highlights. The Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) will be geared up with additional rental cars and knowledge that additional visitors will be flying into the airport.
  • Great Falls International Airport (GTF): About four hours southeast, GTF allows groups to enter Glacier National Park from the east side at St. Mary, travel the Going-to-the-Sun Road, and exit at West Glacier or Kalispell—perfect for a loop itinerary.

Can we use Amtrak as an option?

Yes. Amtrak’s Empire Builder travels the northern route between Chicago and Seattle/Portland and is an excellent alternative for groups. It stops at several communities in Western Montana:

  • Libby
  • Whitefish
  • West Glacier
  • Essex
  • East Glacier Park Village
  • Cut Bank

Whitefish offers car rentals, making it one of the most popular Amtrak stops for accessing Glacier National Park and the Flathead Valley.

Is 2026 still a good year for groups to visit Montana?

Absolutely. While July’s runway project requires advance planning, Western Montana remains fully accessible and welcoming to group tours and international travelers. With two airports, Amtrak access and scenic road-trip routes, there are multiple ways to incorporate Glacier National Park and the surrounding region into your itineraries.

Why July?

Based on two decades of weather data, July offers the most consistent dry conditions and nighttime temperatures above 50 degrees F needed for the construction demands.

Key Takeaway for Operators

  • Book flights early if traveling in July 2026.
  • Consider Missoula (MSO) as a convenient alternative gateway.
  • Use Amtrak or Great Falls (GTF) for additional routing flexibility.
  • Explore shoulder seasons for unique experiences and smoother logistics.

Our team is here to support you with itinerary suggestions, transportation options and updated routing. With thoughtful adjustments, your group or international client will still enjoy all the incredible landscapes, communities and hospitality that Western Montana’s Glacier Country offers. Here is a link to more information at Glacier Park International Airport.

Happy Trails
DP

October 15, 2025

Related: Columbia Falls, Destination Weddings, Direct Flights, East Glacier Park, Essex, Eureka, FIT, Glacier National Park, Group Tours, Itinerary, Kalispell, Lakeside, Libby, Outdoor Adventure, Student tours, Tour Operator, West Glacier, Whitefish

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