Matson/City AirportTo the Kalispell City Council:
As a private pilot based in Missoula, I recognize the significant role
of the Kalispell City Airport in the life of your local community. The
location of the airport is within easy walking distance of fly-in
visitors eager to share the food, lodging, and commerce of the city. My
wife and I come to Kalispell a number of times each year for these
purposes alone. None of these services are available at Glacier Park
Airport without visitors’ obtaining a rental car.
Red Eagle Aviation, located on the City Airport, is a full service
facility offering local employment opportunities for aviation mechanics,
instructors, management, and clerical staff. They provide friendly
service, much appreciated by locals and visitors alike. Airport
buildings and facilities provide welcome employment opportunities for
maintenance and building contractors.
The most frequently used departure to the south from the Airport is
mostly over non-residential properties, thus further minimizing noise
already low because of the small size of the aircraft most frequently
using the Airport.
At times of emergency, when minutes count, the City Airport is several
minutes closer than Glacier Park Airport.
I respectfully urge the Council to fully consider in its discussions the
unique and important assets the Airport brings to the City.
Thank you for this opportunity to comment.
Gary Matson
Box 308
Milltown MT 59851