Montana Air Service: Opportunities and Challenges Final rept. Jan 05-Nov 06

摘要

This report analyzes the challenges facing Montana's commercial service airports and outlines the opportunities for air service and air cargo development. There are 15 commercial service airports in the state. Before opportunities could be recognized, this report researched various airport, state, and industry trends including historic and current service by airport; socioeconomic trends; impact of federal initiatives; airline bankruptcies and mergers; airline operating costs; low-fare carrier impact; and limitations of and changes to the Essential Air Service program. Current air passenger leakage at Montana airports was quantified and future passenger demand was estimated. The challenges to improving air service in Montana include the overlap of air service market areas, limited population, the current state of the airline industry, and the distance to hub airports. Realistic air service and air cargo opportunities are recommended in the form of a state marketing strategy. Statewide recommendations include developing a statewide air service committee, funding an air service development program, providing airport assistance, and creating a policy statement. Individual airport recommendations include establishing local catalyst and air service task force, working with current carriers, educating the community, and pursuing new air service opportunities.