Closest Airports to Livingston, Montana (2024)

Picture this: You’re cruising down I-90, windows rolled down, and the Big Sky Country panorama opens up around you. Maybe you smell a hint of sagebrush or hear the whistle of a hawk circling high above. You’ve got your sights set on Livingston – the doorstep to Yellowstone, a fly-fishing paradise, and a whole lot of Montana charm. But how do you get there in the first place? Let’s dive into finding the best airport for your trip.

Your Airport Options for Livingston

Figuring out where to fly into is the first step of your Montana adventure! Get the lay of the land with this guide to airports around Livingston – from big hubs with all the bells and whistles to cozy airstrips where you might just catch a glimpse of an elk grazing nearby.

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)

• Best for: Most travelers – it’s the closest major airport to Livingston.
• Airlines operate: Major carriers like Delta, United, Alaska, and more, plus regional ones like Allegiant and Frontier.
• Transportation options: Rental cars, shuttles, taxis, and ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft).
• Distance to Livingston: About 35 miles west.
• Time to take: Roughly a 35-minute drive.
• Route to take: Scenic drive along I-90 East.

Bozeman’s your best bet for convenience. With plenty of flight options, it puts you real close to all that Livingston and the Yellowstone region have to offer. Plus, grabbing a rental car and driving down the interstate is a classic Montana experience all by itself!

Mission Field Airport (LVM)

• Best for: Travelers looking for a less busy experience, especially those flying private planes or charters.
• Airlines operate: Primarily smaller airlines and charters.
• Transportation options: Rental cars (sometimes limited), taxis, or pre-arranged transportation.
• Distance to Livingston: Just about 7 miles east.
• Time to take: A quick 15-ish minute drive.
• Route to take: I-90 West and I-90 Business Loop.

Think of Mission Field like Livingston’s ‘local’ airport. It’s a great option if you’re after a relaxed, no-frills arrival without the big airport hustle. They also won the Montana “Airport of the Year” award!

Considering Airports Beyond the 100-Mile Radius

While we’ve focused on airports within a 100-mile radius, a couple of slightly farther options might be worth considering depending on your specific needs:

Billings Logan International Airport (BIL)

• Best for: Budget-conscious travelers and those seeking more flight options.
• Airlines operate: Similar to Bozeman, you’ll find major airlines here.
• Transportation options: Rental cars, shuttles, taxis, and ride-sharing (sometimes less frequent in Livingston itself).
• Distance to Livingston: Roughly 100 miles east.
• Time to take: About a two-hour drive.
• Route to take: Another beautiful stretch along I-90 West

Billings is further out, but a solid choice if finding cheaper airfare is top priority. The drive’s still scenic, and sometimes you have to go for a good deal!

Helena Regional Airport (HLN)

• Best for: Travelers who don’t mind the slightly longer drive, possibly offering different flight options or price points than closer airports.
• Airlines operate: Alaska, Delta, United, and their regional partners
• Transportation options: Rental cars, shuttles, taxis, ride-sharing
• Distance to Livingston: Approximately 125 to 150 miles, depending on the route you take.
• Time to take: Around a 2-hour drive
• Route to take: I-15 South, followed by I-90 East or US-287 South and I-90 East.

It’s served by major airlines (Alaska, United, Delta) and offers typical airport amenities like rental cars and shuttles. Be prepared for a longer drive of around 2 hours, adding a touch more adventure to your Montana journey.

Bert Mooney Airport (BTM)

• Best for: Potentially a good option if flight schedules align perfectly or you’re flying private
• Airlines operate: Delta and its regional partners. Service might be more limited compared to larger airports.
• Transportation options: Rental cars, taxis (may need to pre-arrange), limited ride-sharing
• Distance to Livingston: Approximately 105-119 miles, depending on the route you take
• Time to take: About 1.5-2 hours
• Route to take: Primarily I-90 East

Think of this primarily as a great option if you’re flying privately or happen to find that elusive, perfect flight connection. Since it’s farther from Livingston, make sure you plan your ground transportation ahead of time, such as pre-arranging a taxi or rental car.

Picking the Perfect Landing Spot

Choosing the right airport is a Montana-style balancing act. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Cost vs. Convenience: Bigger airports usually mean more flight options, which can translate to cheaper fares. But, is a longer drive from a further-out airport worth the savings? Also, consider extra parking costs if you leave your car behind. It’s about finding the sweet spot that fits your budget and your tolerance for road-tripping!
• Season: Montana’s got four distinct moods (some grumpier than others when it comes to weather). Smaller airports might have fewer flights, or even totally different schedules, during the winter, spring, or fall. Always double-check your dates and the airport’s website to avoid surprises.
• Special Needs: Whether it’s wheelchair access, needing extra assistance, or traveling with service animals, not every airport’s the same. Calling ahead is never a bad idea. It’ll save headaches when you land, letting you focus on the good stuff – getting to Livingston and exploring!

Beyond the Airport: Getting to Livingston

The adventure ain’t over once you get off the plane. Here’s your transport cheat sheet:

• Rent a Ride: The classic Montana move! Gives you the most freedom to explore Yellowstone, find those hidden gem fishing holes, and wander off the beaten path. But remember, availability can change with the season, so book ahead, especially if you need something specific (like a 4-wheel drive).
• Shuttles: These mainly run from Bozeman and can be seriously convenient if you don’t feel like driving after the flight. Check for schedules and if they go directly to Livingston or if a changeover is needed.
• Taxis/Ride-Sharing: You’ll find these at all the airports, but services may be less frequent in Livingston itself. Great if you just need a quick trip into town, but less ideal for big-time exploring.

Final Thought

Remember, in Montana, the journey itself is half the fun. Rolling through those wide-open landscapes, spotting wildlife, or making a detour at a quirky roadside stop – it’s all part of the experience. So, don’t stress too much about the airport. Pick the one that makes the most sense for you, and roll with it! The real adventure starts the moment you touch down in Big Sky Country. Happy trails!