BILLINGS, Mont., – The Billings community is poised for enhanced air service accessibility thanks to a generous sponsorship from the Montana Department of Commerce. With a commitment of $50,000, this sponsorship helps the Billings Air Service Committee meet the local match goal for the Small Community Air Service Development Grant (SCASD) grant requirement of $750,000.
“Providing additional commercial flight access to Billings is essential to every rural and eastern Montana community,” said Paul Green, Director of the Montana Department of Commerce. “Montana is open for business. More flights to Billings opens Montana’s economy up for visitors and future businesses that will create good paying jobs for Montanans.”
The grant will be instrumental in introducing non-stop daily air service between Billings and either Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or San Francisco International Airport (SFO). The strategic addition aims to meet the growing demand for air travel to and from these markets, particularly from tourists seeking to explore the scenic beauty of Montana.
Tourism is a vital driver of economic development, and the introduction of new air services will undoubtedly play a significant role in facilitating increased visitation not only to Billings but also to the broader region of Southeast Montana. Improving access to this area will create a positive economic impact on local businesses, hospitality services and cultural attractions.
“The Billings Air Service Committee is thrilled about this sponsorship from the Montana Department of Commerce. This grant represents a major stride towards our goal of improving air connectivity for our community.” said Jeff Roach, Director, Aviation and Transit.
The Billings Air Service Committee is comprised of leadership from Visit Billings, the Billings Chamber of Commerce, Big Sky Economic Development, and the City of Billings, along with businesses and community leaders who are dedicated to supporting Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) and effort to increase air service to the Billings and southeast Montana region.