JetBlue, more American Airlines routes coming to Glacier Airport

Glacier Park International Airport on Friday announced a new partnership with the popular discount airline JetBlue Airways, with flights to New York City this summer. It’s another sign of recovery from last year’s pandemic-driven reduced passenger numbers.

JetBlue will start offering seasonal flights to John F. Kennedy International Airport three times a week in July and August.

And that’s not the only way Montanans will be able to get to the Big Apple: American Airlines also is adding service to New York City with Saturday flights to LaGuardia Airport. American also announced additional Saturday service to Charlotte, North Carolina.

“The JetBlue partnership increases our airline carriers from five to six,” Rob Ratkowski, GPIA director said in a press release. “This is great news for all travelers. The JetBlue and American Airlines services will benefit Montanans, bring tourism to our beautiful area, and enhance the flight options and experiences of everyone.”

The new American Airlines routes increase the air carrier’s total number of Kalispell destinations from three to five. American Airlines currently operates flights from GPIA to Dallas-Fort Worth, Chicago and Los Angeles.

“American is excited to add once weekly, nonstop seasonal service between our Charlotte and New York-La Guardia hubs and Glacier Park International Airport,” said Brian Znotins with American Airlines. “As customers return to the skies, the National Parks System remains high on their list of summer destinations. These new flights not only connect customers to Glacier National Park and the natural beauty of Montana, but also provide local residents with access to several one-stop connections across American’s network. This new service complements our existing flights between FCA (Glacier Park International) and Dallas-Fort Worth and Los Angeles.”

These additions signal continued recovery at GPIA after traveler numbers bottomed out last spring. In January, renewed confidence in the Kalispell airport spurred new destinations in Minneapolis and San Diego, as well as the resumption of a $100 million terminal renovation project at the airport.

“Visitors need only step off the plane in Montana to understand the magic of our state,” Ratkowski said. “The growth we have seen at Glacier Park International Airport in recent months has been incredible. We are thrilled to be welcoming JetBlue to the GPIA family, and we look forward to expanded flight options for area travelers.”

For more information on JetBlue destinations and fares, visit www.jetblue.com. For information on American Airlines destinations and fares, visit www.aa.com.

Reporter Bret Anne Serbin may be reached at 758-4459 or bserbin@dailyinterlake.com.