Located in the heart of the Rockies in Montana, the Bert Mooney airport has a beautiful 40,633 square foot new terminal (built in 2018) ready for travelers from various airlines feeding through Salt Lake City.
The unique regional airport is steeped in history, beginning first in 1927 as the Butte National Airport – a true destination airport for the West.
In the airport’s early days, the airfield consisted of a single small hangar. In 1928, the airport changed its name to the Butte Municipal Airport, then again changed to Silver Bow County Airport in 1956.
In 1962, a new terminal was built in the style of a chalet – and then, finally, the airport had its last name change to Bert Mooney in 1972, honoring the local aviator by that name.
Pilot Bert Mooney began flying in Los Angeles before the Bert Mooney Airport was conceived – back in 1919. He wound up coming to Butte and founded the Butte Aero Sales and ultimately became the chief pilot for Western Air Express (Western Airlines).
He flew the first airmail flight into Yellowstone, as well. And while Mooney may not be as famous out of the region as some aviators, he’s a local hero there in the Butte region.
World famous folks have come through the airport, including pilot Charles Lindbergh in 1927, landing the Spirit of St. Louis on his journey.
Other famous folks who’ve made their way through include Charles Dickinson in 1927, Teddy Roosevelt in 1936, Thomas Dewey in 1948, Harry Truman in 1956, and Lyndon Johnson in 1964 – making at least three former presidents and the historic New York governor guests of Butte, even if just a short time.
The beautiful terminal that stands at Bert Mooney Airport today reflects the historic charm of Butte without skimping on the conveniences and necessities today’s travelers require.
Plus, the restored Spirit of St. Louis Hangar is home to community gatherings for educational purposes for children and adults learning about aviation, shelter for general aviation pilots, planning for the general aviation community, and celebrations of historical events for the region.
The Top 3 Hotels Near Bert Mooney Airport
Good Location and Very Good Facility...
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