Airport gets grant, new flight

The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded the Flathead Municipal Airport Authority a $1.14 million grant for Glacier Park International Airport.

The money, distributed through the Federal Aviation Administration, will be used by snow removal equipment and land for runway approach protection, as well as for continuing to update the airport master plan.

"Glacier International Airport is a vital cog in Montana's recreation economy and a significant asset to all of northwestern Montana," said Rep. Denny Rehberg, R-Mont., a member of the House Appropriations Committee. "This grant helps the community keep up with the growing demand for air transportation, while also paving the way for further economic development."

Due to that growing demand, nonstop jet service from U.S. Airways between Phoenix and Kalispell will begin June 1.

Regional passenger jets will provide the once-daily service until July 1. Then the aircraft will be upgraded to the 124-seat Airbus. The service is tentatively scheduled to end in September.