9 Cheap Airports to Fly Into Montana in 2025

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Looking to explore Montana’s wild landscapes without sky-high airfare? This state has it all: rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and jaw-dropping national parks like Glacier and Yellowstone. Whether you’re dreaming of hitting the slopes, hiking epic trails, or just soaking up some Montana solitude, there are budget-friendly ways to get there.

I’ve scoured the cheapest flight routes using sites like Going, Skyscanner, Hopper, and Google Flights to bring you the nine most affordable airports to fly into in Montana. With a little planning, you’ll be on your way to exploring Big Sky Country without blowing your budget. Let’s dive into where to land to keep those travel costs low and adventure levels high!

#1 tip to find cheap flights to Montana

Looking for cheap flights to Montana? Before diving into all the top cities and airports to fly to Montana, I want to share a quick tip on how to save money on airfare.

For the past 3 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $157 roundtrip fare from Boston to Bozeman.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best Montana flights in 2025.

Cheapest Places to Fly to in Montana in 2025

Ready to start your adventure on the right foot? Below are the cheapest flights to Montana from cities across the US and around the world.

1. Billings Logan International Airport (BIL)

• 🏠 Location: Just 2 miles northwest of downtown Billings
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Montana’s largest airport with strong airline competition
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Southwest, Frontier, Alaska Airlines
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book midweek flights into Billings during shoulder seasons to score deals under $200 roundtrip

Billings is often one of the cheapest airports to fly into in Montana, especially from major hubs like Denver, Phoenix, or Chicago. Roundtrip fares commonly range from $180 to $260, with the best savings in April and late October when tourism dips but the weather stays mild.

BIL is just minutes from downtown, so you can skip the long drives and start exploring right away. Local highlights include the Yellowstone Art Museum, Moss Mansion, and Pictograph Cave State Park. If you’re road-tripping, Billings Airport also makes a smart base for visiting Red Lodge or driving the iconic Beartooth Highway toward Yellowstone.

Fun fact: BIL sits on a sandstone bluff overlooking the city, giving it one of the most scenic airport approaches in the U.S. Window seat travelers get a free aerial view of Big Sky Country as they land.

• Read next: Best Budget Airlines

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2. Great Falls International Airport (GTF)

• 🏠 Location: About 5 miles southwest of downtown Great Falls
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Underrated entry point with fewer crowds and strong regional flight deals
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Allegiant Air, Delta, Frontier
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for weekend promos from Allegiant or book in early summer for cheaper fares and small-town events

Flights into Great Falls International Airport often range from $190 to $270 roundtrip, especially from cities like Las Vegas, Phoenix, or Minneapolis. The cheapest rates show up in late May or early June, when wildflowers start blooming and crowds are still light. Booking early can also score rental car deals, making it easier to explore more of Montana on a budget.

Great Falls is small but packed with history and outdoor access. Don’t miss the C.M. Russell Museum or the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. The River’s Edge Trail runs along the Missouri River and is perfect for hiking or biking with scenic waterfall views. You’re also within three hours of Glacier National Park, making GTF a great option for budget-minded adventurers headed north.

Fun fact: Great Falls International is one of the few airports in Montana with its own business park and U.S. Customs office, which keeps operations efficient and helps attract more flights. It’s a win for travelers looking for affordable, convenient entry into the state.

• Read next: Must-See Spots in Glacier National Park

3. Missoula International Airport (MSO)

• 🏠 Location: About 6 miles northwest of downtown Missoula
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Steady student and tourism traffic keeps fares competitive year-round
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Allegiant Air, Alaska Airlines, Frontier
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly in during late September or early April when fares dip and trails are quieter but still gorgeous

Missoula International Airport consistently ranks among the cheapest airports to fly into in Montana, with roundtrip flights often between $180 and $250. Routes from West Coast cities like Oakland, Portland, or L.A. offer the best rates, especially during the shoulder seasons when the city is still buzzing but not overloaded with tourists.

Once you land, you’re 15 minutes from downtown’s riverfront district, home to museums, bookstores, breweries, and local shops. Nature lovers will want to explore Rattlesnake National Recreation Area just north of the city or kayak along the Clark Fork River. The surrounding mountains are full of scenic drives and trailheads, so you won’t need to go far to find adventure.

Fun fact: Missoula International is currently expanding its new terminal with a focus on faster check-ins and bigger waiting areas. That means smoother airport experiences for travelers and less stress during peak travel months.

4. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)

• 🏠 Location: About 10 miles northwest of downtown Bozeman
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: High volume of seasonal routes and consistent demand from park-goers
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Spirit, Alaska Airlines, Southwest
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book in shoulder months like April or early November when fares drop and park traffic is lower

Bozeman Yellowstone International is a smart pick for travelers headed to both outdoor escapes and small-town charm. Roundtrip flights usually range from $190 to $280, especially from cities like Denver, Chicago, or San Francisco. Spirit often has the lowest base fares, but booking early and bringing only a carry-on can save even more.

The airport connects you with some of Montana’s best scenery in under two hours. Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky Resort, and the Gallatin River are all nearby, while downtown Bozeman has breweries, art galleries, and a laid-back mountain vibe. Travelers often use BZN as a flexible base to explore both nature and culture without long drives or flight headaches.

Fun fact: BZN is the only airport in Montana with U.S. Customs and Border Protection on site, which allows for occasional international flights. That gives you more flight options and smoother travel if you’re connecting through Canada or abroad.

• Read next: Beautiful Montana Cabins
• You may also like: Must-See Places in Montana

5. Helena Regional Airport (HLN)

• 🏠 Location: About 3 miles northeast of downtown Helena
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Low traffic and regional funding help keep fares stable
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Delta, Alaska Airlines
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book 4 to 6 weeks in advance and fly midweek for the best savings

Travelers flying into Helena often get a quiet, affordable alternative to Montana’s busier hubs. Roundtrip flights usually range from $200 to $280, especially from cities like Seattle, Salt Lake City, or Denver. Timing your trip for May or October can lead to lower fares and more availability on flights and lodging.

The Helena Regional Airport is only a 10-minute drive from downtown, where you’ll find gold rush history, walkable neighborhoods, and easy access to hiking trails like Mount Helena Ridge. For road-trippers, the city’s central location makes it easy to reach Boulder, Great Divide Ski Area, or Gates of the Mountains without long drives or crowded highways.

Fun fact: HLN is known for its speedy security lines and compact layout, often getting travelers from curb to gate in under 20 minutes. That quick turnaround is perfect for short trips or early morning flights.

6. Bert Mooney Airport (BTM)

• 🏠 Location: About 3 miles southeast of downtown Butte
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Low-traffic regional airport with minimal competition
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Delta, Alaska Airlines
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Butte as a starting point for a southwest Montana road trip to save on rental car drop fees

Bert Mooney Airport is one of the most budget-friendly entry points for exploring southwest Montana. Roundtrip flights typically land between $210 and $290 from Salt Lake City and Denver. Prices tend to be lowest in late spring and early fall when the tourist flow is lighter and accommodations are easier to book.

Flying into Butte places you near some of Montana’s most scenic and historic spots. The city itself offers a unique mining history, with highlights like the World Museum of Mining and the Berkeley Pit overlook. From here, you can head to Philipsburg, explore Anaconda’s mountain trails, or take the Pintler Veterans Memorial Scenic Highway for unbeatable views.

Fun fact: Bert Mooney Airport is named after a pioneering airmail pilot who flew over the Rockies in the 1930s. Today, the airport’s small size means faster security checks and less terminal stress for modern travelers.

7. Glasgow Airport (GGW)

• 🏠 Location: About 1 mile north of downtown Glasgow
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Remote location and federally subsidized air service
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Cape Air
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book a roundtrip to Glasgow and rent a car to explore eastern Montana without dealing with crowded routes

Glasgow Airport is a solid option for travelers who want to explore Montana’s wide-open plains without the price tag of bigger airports. Flights often run between $210 and $270 roundtrip from regional hubs like Billings or Wolf Point. Prices stay steady year-round thanks to Essential Air Service protections, but early fall tends to have the best weather and smallest crowds.

The town is small with easy access to natural treasures. The Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge offers hiking, wildlife photography, and peaceful views of Fort Peck Lake. If you’re chasing solitude or stargazing, this corner of Montana delivers. It’s also a great area for fishing trips or scenic road travel with little traffic and big skies.

Fun fact: GGW averages fewer than 10 commercial flights per week, which means no long lines and fast boarding. Currently, you’ll only find intra-Montana flights from this airport.

8. Sidney-Richland Municipal Airport (SDY)

• 🏠 Location: About 3 miles west of downtown Sidney
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Minimal air traffic and low operating costs keep fares reasonable
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Cape Air
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Plan your trip in winter or early spring for the lowest fares and more seat options

Sidney-Richland Municipal Airport is a hidden gem for budget travelers looking to experience Montana’s quiet side. Roundtrip fares typically fall between $210 and $275, especially on short regional routes. Because of its small size and Essential Air Service support, flights maintain consistent pricing regardless of the season.

From SDY, you’re just a few minutes from downtown Sidney and within reach of eastern Montana’s lesser-known highlights. Take a walk along the Yellowstone River, stop by the MonDak Heritage Center, or drive out to Fort Union Trading Post and Makoshika State Park for history and badland views. With little traffic and easy parking, SDY works well for relaxed weekend getaways.

Fun fact: SDY uses a simplified boarding process with no security checkpoints for most flights, which speeds up your travel time and makes the airport ideal for short, efficient trips.

9. Glendive Dawson Community Airport (GDV)

• 🏠 Location: About 5 miles northwest of downtown Glendive
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Remote regional airport with subsidized commercial service
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Cape Air
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly into Glendive and use it as a quiet, low-cost base to explore eastern Montana by car

Glendive Airport is often overlooked, which helps keep flights affordable for travelers who value space and solitude. Roundtrip fares generally run between $220 and $280 from regional cities like Billings or Sidney. Booking early in the week or during winter months can unlock even cheaper rates and more seat availability.

Landing at GDV puts you close to Makoshika State Park, Montana’s largest state park and a treasure trove of dinosaur fossils, hiking trails, and surreal badlands. The nearby Yellowstone River offers fishing, paddling, and peaceful scenic drives. Glendive is also a good jumping-off point for quiet trips into North Dakota or the Fort Union Trading Post area.

Fun fact: GDV is part of the Essential Air Service program, which guarantees regular flight service and prevents fare spikes. That reliability benefits travelers who want small-airport prices without sacrificing schedule consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cheapest Montana Airports to Fly Into

As travelers seek the cheapest airports to fly into Montana, numerous questions arise. In this section, we address some of the most common queries to aid in your travel planning.

What airport in Montana is the cheapest to fly into?

The cost of flying into Montana can vary based on several factors, including the season, airline, and specific promotions. However, many travelers find that smaller airports, due to their operational efficiencies and strategic promotions, often offer competitive fares. While it’s challenging to pinpoint a single cheapest airport to fly into Montana, airports like Glendive Dawson Community Airport (GDV) and Sidney-Richland Municipal Airport (SDY) frequently emerge as cost-effective options. It’s always a good idea to compare prices across various airports and airlines to secure the best deal.

Where is the best place to fly into Montana?

Montana is a vast state with diverse attractions, so the “best” place to fly into largely depends on your itinerary. For those looking to explore national parks, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) offers proximity to Yellowstone. Meanwhile, history buffs and cultural enthusiasts might prefer flying into cities like Helena or Missoula. It’s essential to consider both your travel goals and the available flight options when deciding on the ideal entry point.

Can you fly direct to Montana?

Yes, many major airlines offer direct flights to Montana from various cities across the United States. Airports like Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) and Missoula International Airport (MSO) frequently have direct routes from major hubs, making it convenient for travelers to reach Montana without multiple layovers.

What international airports are in Montana?

While Montana has several airports, only a few are designated as international. These include Billings Logan International Airport (BIL), Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), and Great Falls International Airport (GTF). These airports cater to a mix of domestic and limited international flights, primarily from Canada.

How do Montana’s airport fares compare to other states?

Given its diverse range of airports, from larger hubs to regional airstrips, Montana offers a spectrum of airfares. Often, the cheapest airports to fly into Montana are competitive with other states, especially when considering off-peak seasons and promotions. However, prices can fluctuate based on demand, airline operations, and specific events or seasons.

Is it easy to find budget airlines flying into Montana?

Absolutely! Several budget airlines, including Allegiant Air, Frontier, and Spirit Airlines, operate routes into various Montana airports. These carriers often provide cost-effective options for travelers, making Montana accessible even for those on a tight budget.

Are there seasonal variations in flight prices to Montana?

Yes, like many travel destinations, Montana sees fluctuations in airfare based on the season. Popular tourist seasons, especially summer when national parks like Glacier and Yellowstone see peak visitors, might have higher fares. However, shoulder seasons, such as late spring and early fall, often present opportunities for more affordable flights.

Which Montana airport is closest to major tourist attractions?

The proximity to attractions depends on the specific experiences you’re seeking. For instance, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is close to Yellowstone National Park, while Missoula International Airport (MSO) offers easy access to cultural attractions and outdoor adventures in western Montana. It’s essential to map out your itinerary and choose an airport that aligns with your travel goals.

Final Thoughts on Montana’s Cheapest Airports

Montana, renowned for its expansive landscapes and rich heritage, attracts diverse travelers. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor adventures, historical exploration, or a tranquil getaway, Montana has it all. Identifying the cheapest airports to fly into Montana can elevate the experience, combining memorable moments with affordability.

When planning your Montana visit, explore the varied airport choices, consider seasonal price changes, and look for promotions. This way, you can fully enjoy Big Sky Country while staying within your budget.