โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
40
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) is the primary aviation hub for Montana and the wider Northern Plains region, uniquely situated atop the Rimrocksโa series of dramatic sandstone cliffs overlooking the city of Billings. The airport recently completed a transformative multi-year, 5-phase terminal expansion in 2024, which has significantly modernized its infrastructure to handle over one million annual passengers. This major project included the remodeling of both Concourse A and Concourse B, doubling the number of jet bridges to eight and increasing the total gate capacity to nine to accommodate a robust schedule of flights from major U.S. carriers.
The terminal now features a spacious 'Great Room' designed as a centralized hub for passenger comfort, offering extensive seating, dedicated workspaces with integrated charging ports, and panoramic views of the airfield. The security screening area has been significantly expanded and equipped with the latest technology to ensure efficient processing during morning and afternoon peak periods. The facility is organized for intuitive navigation, with Concourses A and B easily accessible from the main ticketing hall. For general aviation, the airport remains a critical center for regional commerce, medical flights, and pilot training in the Big Sky Country.
Amenities at BIL reflect the local Montana heritage, featuring the 'Montana Gift Corral' and 'Skyblu Gifts,' which offer a wide selection of Huckleberry products and regional artisanal goods. The dining landscape has been enhanced with new restaurant options and expanded snack bars in the departure lounges. Ground transportation is well-supported with major car rental agencies located on-site, dedicated taxi ranks, and the MET transit bus service connecting to downtown Billings. Looking ahead through 2025, the airport is continuing its infrastructure growth with a planned $31 million parking garage project and a significant reconstruction and extension of its crosswind runway to support larger commercial aircraft.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting through Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) is a stress-free and modern experience following the completion of its transformative terminal expansion in mid-2024. As the primary aviation hub for Montana and the Northern Plains, BIL operates from a single, bi-level terminal that is exceptionally easy to navigate. Most travelers arrive at BIL via regional links from smaller Montana communities or are connecting to major hubs like Salt Lake City (SLC), Minneapolis (MSP), and Denver (DEN) through carriers such as Delta, United, and Alaska Airlines.
A critical tip for passengers connecting from regional Cape Air flights is to note their arrival in the "Essential Air Service" wing on the far west end of the terminal. While the airport is contained within one building, transfers from Cape Air to major carriers may require you to exit the sterile area and re-clear security at the main TSA checkpoint. For these connections, allow at least 60 minutes. For airside-to-airside transfers between Delta or United flights, 30 to 45 minutes is usually sufficient, as walking between Concourses A and B takes less than 8 minutes.
The newly designed "Great Room" post-security offers a comfortable waiting area with a fireplace, panoramic views of the Rimrocks, and the Gateway Taproom for refreshments. For those on self-connecting tickets with separate bookings, you must collect your luggage at the lower-level baggage claim and re-check it at the upper-level ticketing hall. If you have an early morning flight between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM, arriving two hours in advance is recommended, as this is the airport's busiest period.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Ambler Airport (ABL) is a remote, state-owned public-use airport located in the Native Alaskan village of Ambler, within the Northwest Arctic Borough. It serves as an indispensable lifeline for this isolated community, as there are no connecting roads. The airport's infrastructure is extremely basic, reflecting its role as a bush airport. There is no traditional terminal building; instead, operations are conducted from a small, heated shelter or a designated waiting area adjacent to the gravel runway. This single facility serves as the waiting lounge, check-in area, and baggage claim point.
The airport is equipped with two gravel runways, the longest measuring 3,000 feet, operating at an elevation of 334 feet above mean sea level. This design accommodates the small aircraft, typically Twin Otters or Cessnas, that are vital for connecting Ambler to larger regional hubs. Passengers should anticipate a highly informal process, with direct interactions with pilots and airline representatives from operators like Bering Air.
Amenities at Ambler Airport are exceptionally sparse. There are no cafes, restaurants, vending machines, or shops on-site. Travelers are strongly advised to bring all necessary provisions, including food, water, and personal supplies. Security procedures are minimal, consistent with bush flying operations in remote Alaska, focusing on adherence to general aviation safety guidelines.
๐ Connection Tips
Connections at Ambler Airport are exclusively through domestic bush flights, with Bering Air being the primary operator. These flights are crucial for linking Ambler with larger regional centers like Kotzebue (OTZ) and, occasionally, Shungnak (SHG). Kotzebue's Ralph Wien Memorial Airport serves as the main hub from which most flights to Ambler originate, providing essential connections to Anchorage and other Alaskan cities. This ensures vital access for supplies and personnel to the remote community.\n\nTravel to Ambler is highly dependent on weather conditions and daylight hours. Flights are often subject to delays or cancellations due to adverse weather, including snow, fog, or high winds, which are common in arctic Alaska. It is crucial to maintain flexible travel plans and to confirm your flight status directly with Bering Air or your charter operator. There are no inter-airline baggage transfer services; all luggage is handled manually upon arrival and departure. Always prepare for the unexpected in this challenging environment.\n\nGround transportation in Ambler is limited and primarily relies on local community members or pre-arranged pickups. There are no taxis or rental cars readily available at the airport. Given the extreme conditions and isolation, self-sufficiency is paramount. It is vital to coordinate all onward travel details, including accommodation and local transport, well in advance of your arrival. Having a clear plan for your ground logistics is as important as your flight plan when traveling to such a remote destination.
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