About the Master Plan Currently Underway

The Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) Master Plan Study outlines a comprehensive framework for the airport's future development, addressing facility improvements, aviation demand forecasts, and environmental considerations. BIL, serving Billings and south-central Montana since 1928, has undergone significant expansions to meet growing passenger demand, including a major terminal project completed in 2024. Situated on top of the Rims in Yellowstone County, BIL covers 2,500 acres and is the main commercial airport for the region. The airport is managed by the City of Billings, with daily operations overseen by the Aviation and Transit Director.

The Master Plan aims to adapt to future aviation demand, maximize revenue opportunities, enhance infrastructure sustainably, and respond to community needs. BIL is part of the Montana State Aviation System Plan and the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems, qualifying for Airport Improvement Program funding. The planning process includes public and stakeholder participation through advisory committees, public open houses, and updates on the airport's website. 

Introduction: The Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) Master Plan Study provides a comprehensive framework for future development at the airport. The study includes analyses and assessments of existing facilities, aviation demand forecasts, facility requirements, development alternatives, and environmental conditions. The goal is to guide the airport's growth and ensure it meets future aviation needs.

Airport History: BIL has served Billings and south-central Montana since 1928. Initially named Billings Municipal Airport, it was renamed Billings Logan Field in 1957 and later Billings Logan International Airport in 1971. The airport has undergone several expansions to accommodate increasing passenger demand, including a major 5-phase expansion project completed in 2024.

Airport Setting: Located in Yellowstone County, Montana, BIL is situated on top of the Rims, a 500-foot cliff overlooking downtown Billings. The airport covers 2,500 acres and serves as the main commercial airport for the region. Billings, known as "The Magic City," is the most populous city in Montana and a key trade and distribution center.

Airport Management: The airport is governed by the Aviation and Transit Board, consisting of seven members appointed by the Mayor with the consent of the City Council. The Aviation and Transit Director oversees daily operations and management.

Climate: Billings experiences mildly warm summers and cold winters, with variable weather conditions during fall and spring. Climate data from 1949 to 2023 highlights average temperatures, precipitation, and snowfall, which are crucial for planning airport facilities.

Airport System Planning Role: BIL is part of the Montana State Aviation System Plan (SASP) and the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS). It is classified as a Non-Hub Primary Commercial Service Airport, meeting criteria for inclusion in the NPIAS and eligibility for Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funding.

Airport Vision and Master Plan Goals: The Master Plan aims to adapt to future aviation demand, respond to community needs, maximize revenue opportunities, enhance infrastructure sustainably, and provide flexibility to address industry changes.

Public and Stakeholder Participation Program: The planning process includes input from stakeholders, the public, and other interested parties through advisory committees, public open houses, and updates on the airport's website.  Copies of presentations will also be available on the airport's website.

Morrison-Maierle

The firm, Morrison-Maierle, is assisting the Airport with this planning process that is currently underway.

Master Plan Information

 The new Master Plan is divided into chapters.  Chapters will be available for review in the Document Center as they become available.

Master Plan Update

This planning process is an update of the previous Master Plan prepared in 2012.