GTF Airport Insights & Guide
Key GTF 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
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Great Falls International Airport (GTF) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from GTF-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
"Great Falls International Airport is compact, with a single terminal that makes navigation straightforward. However, it's important to note that the security checkpoint can get busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly." — John D., Great Falls, MT, August 2023
"If you're connecting to another flight, remember that all gates are within a short walking distance. This makes it easy to get from one gate to another without much hassle." — Emily S., Malmstrom AFB, MT, July 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The airport is just a 10-minute drive from downtown Great Falls. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available, but if you prefer public transport, the Great Falls Transit District offers convenient bus services." — Michael R., Black Eagle, MT, September 2023
"If you're renting a car, the rental car counters are located right by the baggage claim area, making it quick and easy to pick up your vehicle and be on your way." — Lisa T., Vaughn, MT, October 2023
Parking
"Parking at GTF is a breeze. There are short-term and long-term parking options available, and both lots are within walking distance of the terminal. Just remember to book in advance during the holiday season to secure a spot." — Robert K., Sun Prairie, MT, November 2023
"For those picking up passengers, the cell phone waiting area is very convenient. You can wait there for free until your party is ready to be picked up at the curb." — Karen P., Ulm, MT, December 2023
Inside the Airport
"Great Falls International may be small, but it has a decent selection of dining options. The Montana Coffee Traders is a must-visit for a good cup of coffee and a quick bite." — Anna B., Cascade, MT, January 2024
"If you have some time before your flight, check out the local art displays scattered throughout the terminal. It's a nice way to get a feel for the local culture." — David M., Belt, MT, February 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"To avoid delays, try to book flights that depart earlier in the day. Morning flights tend to be less affected by weather and air traffic delays." — Jessica L., Fort Shaw, MT, March 2024
"Security lines can get long, especially during peak travel times. Arrive at least two hours before your flight to ensure you have plenty of time to get through security and to your gate." — Thomas W., Fairfield, MT, April 2024
"Keep an eye on the weather, especially during the winter months. Snow and ice can cause delays, so it's always a good idea to check your flight status before heading to the airport." — Sarah K., Simms, MT, May 2024
iFly Tip: Access a curated selection of travel advice and resources on our Flying Info and Tips page.
Helpful Tips & Resources
Is Great Falls Airport (GTF) airport a bit unfamiliar to you? Look no further than iFly.com for insightful tips and advice. Read on!
- Upon passing through security, go to the map of GTF's airport to navigate through the terminals, and view the restaurant, bars and shopping options as you head to your gate.
- Check here for info on lounges or clubs where you might be able to access via a day pass if you're not a member or flying in first class.
- At times, Great Falls airport has changes to its airlines. Review the airlines that have scheduled flights from Great Falls Airport GTF here.
- Waiting to pick up an arriving passenger? To see where the plane is, when its slated to land, and which terminal it will deplane, use the live flight tracker.
- Want to find the cheapest flight fare from GTF airport? Compare multiple providers, check directly with airlines, and look into alternative airports.
Getting to Know GTF Airport
Discover Great Falls Airport (GTF), Montana's scenic gateway, known for its breathtaking mountain vistas right from the terminal. GTF is not just an airport; it's the start of your Montana adventure, offering a seamless journey for all travelers.
Need a quick, comprehensive guide to GTF? Our Comprehensive Airport Guide covers everything: flight updates, terminal info, parking, dining, and shopping. Simplify your travel with our expert tips.
Navigating GTF's Terminals
Great Falls Airport has one terminal building with two levels, which is divided into two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A has 4 gates and Concourse B has 5 gates. The airport is served by major airlines such as Delta, United, and Allegiant, which operate from both concourses.
Upon arrival, passengers can find baggage claim on the lower level of the terminal building. The upper level houses the ticket counters, security checkpoint, and the departure gates. Concourse A is located to the left of the security checkpoint, while Concourse B is located to the right.
Passengers with connecting flights can easily navigate between concourses as they are connected by a central corridor. There are also various shops, restaurants, and services available throughout the terminal building, including a gift shop, a newsstand, and a restaurant. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
Great Falls Airport has one terminal building that houses all of its facilities, including check-in counters, baggage claim, and security checkpoints. The terminal is easily accessible from the parking lot, with a short walk of only a few minutes required to reach the entrance. There are no shuttle buses or trains needed to get between terminals at this airport, as there is only one terminal building.
iFly Tip: Learn how to book the best flights with our overweight travelers guide.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
When picking up or dropping off passengers at Great Falls Airport, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, curbside parking is strictly prohibited. This means that you cannot park your vehicle at the curb to wait for your passengers. Instead, you will need to use the designated cell-phone waiting areas until your passengers are ready to be picked up.
The cell-phone waiting areas are located near the airport terminal and are free to use. Simply park your vehicle in one of the designated spots and wait for your passengers to call or text you when they are ready to be picked up. Once you receive the call or text, you can then proceed to the terminal to pick up your passengers.
It's important to note that you should not leave your vehicle unattended in the cell-phone waiting areas. If you need to leave your vehicle for any reason, you should park in the short-term parking lot and pay the appropriate fees. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience when picking up or dropping off passengers at Great Falls Airport.
Parking Facilities & Options
GTF offers several parking options for travelers. The Short-Term Parking lot is located directly across from the terminal and is ideal for those picking up or dropping off passengers. The Long-Term Parking lot is a short walk from the terminal and is perfect for travelers needing to park for an extended period.
For those waiting to pick up passengers, there is a Cell Phone Waiting Area located just outside the airport entrance. This area allows drivers to wait for their passengers to arrive before entering the airport's parking areas.
Handicapped parking is available in both the Short-Term and Long-Term Parking lots. Designated spots are located near the terminal for easy access to the airport.
Travelers looking for an economical parking option may want to consider off-airport parking. Several private lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, providing a convenient and cost-effective alternative to on-site parking.
Transportation Options
The airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers arriving and departing from the airport:
- Car Rentals: Car rental facilities are available at the airport, with major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. These companies offer a range of vehicles to choose from, including economy, compact, and luxury cars. It's advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
- Taxis: Taxi services are readily available at the airport, with drop-off areas located outside the terminal building. The fare for a taxi ride varies depending on the destination, but the average fare to downtown Great Falls is around $20. Taxis are a convenient option for those looking for a quick and direct route to their destination.
- Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available for travelers who prefer a more affordable option. These services have designated pickup areas outside the terminal building, and fares are determined by the distance traveled and the time of day. Ride-share services offer a flexible and cost-effective alternative to traditional taxis.
- Airport Shuttles: Several shuttle companies offer services to and from the airport. These shuttles have designated pickup areas outside the terminal building, and fares vary depending on the destination and the number of passengers. Airport shuttles are a convenient option for those traveling to nearby cities or hotels, and it's recommended to book in advance to secure your spot.
- Public Transportation: Great Falls Transit provides bus services to and from the airport. The bus stop is located outside the terminal building, and the fare for a one-way trip is $1.50. Public buses offer an economical way to reach various destinations in Great Falls, with regular schedules to accommodate travelers.
iFly Tip: Flying with a toddler? Let us help with practical advice found on our flying with children guide.
Airport Hotels
Looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport? Our selection of the airport Hotels has got you covered. From hotels offering complimentary airport shuttle services to those with luxurious amenities, we have compiled a selection of accommodations to suit a variety of preferences and budgets. Whether you're in need of a place to rest before an early flight, or looking for a base to explore the local area, our list includes hotels located within a short distance from the airport, ensuring you can easily reach your flight on time. So whether you're looking for a tranquil retreat or an action-packed adventure, you'll find a hotel that fits your needs.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
GTF offers a variety of dining and shopping options to make your airport experience more enjoyable. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a sit-down meal, there's something for everyone.
For a quick bite, head to Einstein Bros. Bagels or Cinnabon, both located in the terminal. If you have more time to spare, check out the restaurant options such as The Last Straw Bistro, which serves up delicious sandwiches and salads, or the Montana Ale Works, which offers a variety of local beers and pub fare.
When it comes to shopping, there are several stores to choose from. The Big Sky Gifts and Montana Marketplace offer a variety of souvenirs and gifts, while the Rocky Mountain Duty Free store has a selection of duty-free items such as liquor, tobacco, and fragrances.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at GTF Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Great Falls 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 on the first floor of the terminal building for your convenience.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Great Falls Airport features a designated children's play area near the food court on the second floor of the terminal building.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
- Banking Services: A full-service bank is available on the first floor of the terminal building, providing access to various financial services while you’re at the airport.
- Medical Help: In case of a medical emergency, a first aid station is located on the second floor of the terminal building. Additionally, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are available throughout the airport for public use.
Flight Status Info
As air travel becomes more popular and accessible, it's important for passengers to have access to real-time flight information. At GTF, there are several ways to check the status of your flight.
One of the most convenient ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays can be found throughout the airport and provide up-to-date information on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply find your flight on the display and take note of any changes or updates.
Another way to stay informed about your flight is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to check your flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancellations, or gate changes, and even check in for your flight. You can also sign up for text, email, and push notifications to receive updates about your flight in real-time.
Lastly, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at GTF Airport 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: Great Falls International Airport (GTF) is located in Great Falls, Montana, United States.
- Terminals: The airport has one terminal building with two concourses, A and B, serving a total of 6 gates.
- Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines. For a list of all airlines, check out the GTF Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Great Falls International Airport handles approximately 2,500 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 40 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from GTF are Denver, Seattle, Minneapolis, Salt Lake City, and Las Vegas.
- Hub Status: Great Falls International Airport is not a hub for any major airline, although Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines operate significant flights from the airport.
Airport History
Great Falls Airport, located in Great Falls, Montana, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1928: The first airport in Great Falls was established on the east side of the city.
- 1931: The airport was moved to its current location on the west side of the city.
- 1941: The airport was used as a training base for World War II pilots.
- 1950s: The airport underwent major renovations and expansions, including the addition of a new terminal building.
- 1970s: The airport saw increased traffic with the addition of new airlines and destinations.
- 1990s: The airport underwent another major renovation, including the addition of a new air traffic control tower.
- 2008: The airport was renamed Great Falls International Airport to reflect its growing importance as a regional hub.
- 2010s: The airport continued to expand with the addition of new airlines and destinations, as well as upgrades to its facilities and infrastructure.
Today, Great Falls International Airport is a vital transportation hub for the region, serving over 400,000 passengers annually.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Great Falls International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: GTF
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 406-727-3404
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Great Falls International Airport, 2800 Terminal Dr, Great Falls, MT 59404, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Great Falls Airport Q&A
Find more help here for your journey through the airport