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Terminal Expansion Project Is Now Open
 MSO-April 13 - travelers departing Missoula International Airport saw some big changes today as the Airport's new terminal was officially unveiled to the public. Located on the west side of the existing terminal building, the $4.3 million addition was designed to alleviate congestion at the security screening checkpoints. Many travelers can remember only 15 years ago when MSO was a relitively quiet airport. Today, MSO is shattering records, and within eight years, the number of travelers passing through MSO is expected to surpass one million passengers annually.
"The new terminal is great, much easier to navigate and seems to flow much better." Mark H., Missoula Airport Passenger
In the old configuration, passenger screening was located in a congested hallway between ticketing and baggage claim. Security was also located next to the corridor for arriving passengers. The result was a "traffic jam" as arriving and departing passengers all converged at one congested intersection. The new terminal configuration eliminates that congestion by separating arriving and departing passengers to opposite ends of the terminal. "We're trying to improve that passenger flow", said Missoula Airport Director Cris Jensen during a recent interview with the Missoulian.
The project includes a new 18,000-square-foot terminal building expansion, a new gift shop, upper-level observation area, and several depictions of Glacial Lake Missoula on the walls and carpeting. The new addition takes advantage of natural lighting thanks to several large skylights. Outside, the new terminal features a unique curvilinear facade, and a copper-clad tower reminiscant of the familiar clock tower at the University of Montana. A new radiant heating system will also be used for the first time at MSO to help keep exterior walkways clear of snow and ice during the winter months.
The terminal expansion is the first phase of what will be an entirely new terminal building as this newest addition will one day become the airport's center as additional wings and concourses are added on.
Missoula Airport Terminal Construction Photos
 Artist rendering of the new "Great Hall" addition (center) with future concourses to the north and west.
 March 2006, constuction begins with the relocation of the terminals existing electrical and gas utilities.
 June 2006, with the new terminal foundation complete, crews begin construction of the north wall.
 August 2006, the terminal features a copper-roof tower and a curvilinear upper level observation lounge.
 August 2006, the terminal will feature a tower similar to the familiar clock tower located at the University of Montana.
 Sept 2006, Airport Director Cris Jensen gives Airport Board members a tour of the spacious new terminal lobby entrance.
April 2007, the completed terminal features a heated walkway to keep snow and ice clear during the winter months.
 April 2007, the main entrance features lighted pillars similar in design to the larger tower structure built into the terminal.
 April 2007, the terminal entrance features a stunning map of Glacial Lake Missoula located just under the tower.
 April 13, 2007, Some of the first passengers pass through the new terminal at Missoula Intl. Airport on it's opening day.
 April 13, 2007, Deputy's from the Missoula County Sheriff's Department check out the new passenger screening areas.
 April 13, 2007, workers begin putting the final touches on the new terminal security addition at Missoula International Airport.
Missoula International Airport
5225 Highway 10 West
Missoula, Montana 59808
Website : www.flymissoula.com
Airport Information : 406 728-4381
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