By Aly Eggart, Executive Director of Visit Billings
In a competitive travel landscape, accessibility is everything. The easier it is for visitors to reach a destination, the more likely they are to choose it. That’s why expanding air service isn’t just about adding flights—it’s about opening doors. For Billings, improved air connectivity means more opportunities to welcome new travelers, support local businesses, and grow as a destination. And as we celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how vital air service is to our tourism economy, and how far we’ve come.
The Role of Visit Billings in Air Service Expansion
For more than a decade, Visit Billings has been a proud and active member of the Chamber of Commerce Billings Air Service Committee, working together with local leaders and airport officials to attract and sustain new air routes. Our team promotes direct flight markets through our national leisure marketing campaigns, ensuring that potential travelers know just how easy it is to fly to Billings. Beyond marketing, Visit Billings has also contributed financially to support air service development efforts, including our donation to the community’s Small Community Air Service Development (SCASD) Grant. These initiatives help position Billings competitively among peer destinations and demonstrate our community’s commitment to long-term tourism growth.
The Impact of New Flight Routes
Each new flight route is more than a convenience, it’s a connection. Whether travelers are flying in for a summer road trip, a youth sports tournament, a convention, or to explore Big Sky Country for the first time, having direct access makes all the difference. Expanded air service brings new visitors to our hotels, restaurants, shops, attractions, and trailheads. It also enhances Billings’ visibility in key markets, helping us grow awareness and repeat visitation.
Billings Logan International Airport Renovation
Complementing these efforts is the recent renovation of Billings Logan International Airport—a game-changer for our region. The updated terminal not only offers improved amenities and efficiency, but it also delivers a modern, welcoming first impression for every traveler who touches down in our city. It’s a reflection of our community’s growth, pride, and vision for the future of tourism and business development.
Billings as a Launching Point
Billings is proud to serve as a launching point for iconic public lands, world-class events, and unforgettable adventures. But none of that matters if visitors can’t get here easily. That’s why Visit Billings remains committed to air service development as a cornerstone of our tourism strategy. When we make it easier to get here, we make it easier for tourism, and our entire community, to thrive.