New Montana Study Highlights Bozeman Airport Economic Impact

A newly released 2026 Economic Impact Study of airports in Montana has revealed the impact that aviation has on the state's economy.

The study was conducted by the Montana Department of Transportation and Zenith Economics, LLC, and highlights the critical role that airports play in the communities they serve.

According to the new study, the Bozeman Yellowstone Airport has the largest economic impact in the state, contributing $2.2 billion annually.

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BZN accounts for approximately one-third of total statewide aviation jobs, output, payroll, and 40.8% of total visitor spending impacts statewide, reinforcing its role as a key economic engine for the region.

As the population of Montana continues to grow, airline travel isn't expected to slow down anytime soon. With the summer season approaching, travelers will be flocking to the Treasure State to visit places like Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and Big Sky.

Several airlines have increased flights from Montana to popular travel destinations around the country, and the state has become more attractive to companies in recent years.

The Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport currently employs around 2,000 workers locally and 11,000 indirectly.  The airport is also planning a major expansion in the near future, which will create hundreds of construction jobs in the area.

In the past 25 years, BZN has experienced the fastest-growing demand among America's top airports. In 2026, the airport will serve a projected 2.9 million passengers.

As someone who travels often and has been to many airports, I can safely say that BZN is one of the nicest airports in the country.

To learn more about the Economic Impact Study, visit the MDT website.