04/22/93 Lipscomb/Future OptionsMONTANA PILOTS' ASSOCIATION
INCORPORATED
P.O. BOX 4311, HELENA, MONTANA 59604
Mayor Douglas Rauthe
City Hall
Kalispell, Montana 59901
Dear Sir,
APR 2 6 1993
April 22, 1993
It has come to my attention that your City Council is considering future options for
the Kalispell City Airport, including the complete industrial development of the property.
I am concerned as a pilot, that this will result in the closure of one the finest facilities in
the state. Kalispell is located in one of the most scenic areas of our Nation. A unique
feature is the location of the City Airport in relationship to restaurants and motels within
easy walking distance. I appreciate this convenience, and has been a prime consideration
when I visit your beautiful city. Glacier Park International Airbort'is an outstanding
facility, and provides a great place to clear Customs when returning from Canada. It is not
as convenient for a transient pilot without ground transportation. Comments from
members of our organization give praise to both locations, but City Airport seems to be
favored because of its close proximity to town.
The FAA in Helena, considers this an ideal location for the Annual FAA Fly -In
because of this easy access to motels that are capable of handling the conference crowd.
The loss of this airport would be keenly felt by both local and transient pilots.
The Montana Pilots' Association would like to go on record, that we strongly
oppose the closure of the Kalispell City Airport, and that any future development should
compliment and enhance this valuable asset to your community.
The airports bring business and growth to Kalispell. My family and I enjoy
shopping in a number of stores when we are in town. Pilots stopping in Kalispell spend a
lot more money than most realize. We return with family and friends for vacations in
Summer and Winter. We are impressed with the natural beauty of the land, and the warm
western hospitality extended by the people of Kalispell. I hope that you, and the leaders
of your community realize what an asset this airport is when preparing your plans to
improve, maintain and develop this property.
Very Sincerely,
I
Robert D. Lipscomb
President
Montana Pilots Association