Lynch/Kalispell City AirportMontana Department of Transportation _ - -- --- firr, Lynch, .Direct�f.
_ _ _
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PQ Box 20100 I
Heiena MT 59620-100"
February 4, 2010
Tammi Fisher, Mayor
Kalispell City Council
City of Kalispell
PO Box 1997
Kalispell MT 59901
Subject: Kalispell City Airport
Dear Mayor Fisher and Council Members:
General aviation plays an important rule to the financial vitality to Montana communities. In
these times of economic difficulty, airports are crucial to the viability of on -airport and off -
airport businesses located near an airport.
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) recently completed an independent
economic impact study that measured the economic benefits associated with 121 airports in
Montana, including the Kalispell City Airport. As a leader in the field, the contractor
completed the study under the approved national guidelines set forth by the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA). The complete study and individual information for your airport can
be viewed at: lltt Elnidt mt.ovlaviationl
In 2008, the Kalispell City airport had eight aviation -related tenants on the airport that
supported over 96 employees.
A small general aviation airport in close proximity to a city serves an entirely different client
than a large commercial service airport located outside of a city. The location of the
Kalispell City airport is a reason the airport retrains one of the busiest general aviation
airports in the state. The Glacier Park International airport does not and because of its
location cannot offer those same preferred conveniences.
The future of the Kalispell City Airport is an important local issue for you and the council to
consider. I welcome an invitation to meet with you to discuss MDT's economic impact study
and to provide information on the importance of general aviation as it affects the community
of Kalispell.
Sincerely,,, J
Lynch
copies: Debbie Alke, Aeronautics Division. Administrator
Director's Office An Equal Opportunity ErRpover Web Page: www.mdt.mt.gov
Phone: (406) 444-6201 Road Report: (800) 226-7623 or 511
Fax: (406i 444-7643 77Y: (800) 335-7592