Ravalli County Airport Closing Tuesday for Runway Construction

HAMILTON — Ravalli County Airport will temporarily close to all aircraft operations Tuesday, September 9, from 1 to 5 p.m. to accommodate construction work on runway safety infrastructure.

The airport, built in 1934, is one of the busiest general aviation airports in Montana and serves as “the gateway to the back country” for recreational areas in western Montana and Idaho, according to county information.

The closure is necessary to complete construction work within the Object Free Area at the south end of Runway 17/35, according to Airport Manager Tim Smead. Forest Service helicopter operations are exempt from the closure.

“This temporary closure is necessary to safely and efficiently complete construction work within the Object Free Area at the south end of Runway 17/35,” Smead said in the closure notice. “During this time, no arrivals or departures will be permitted, and access to runways and taxiways will be restricted.”

Normal operations will resume immediately upon completion of the work. The Federal Aviation Administration has issued NOTAM number 09/026 for the closure.

Pilots and aviation operators with questions or operational concerns can contact Smead directly at (406) 375-6639.

“I appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to maintain the safety and efficiency of the airport,” Smead said.