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A Tiny Terminal with a Big Heart: Yellowstone Airport

July 5, 2012 at 11:39 AM | by | Comments (0)

As much as we love strolling through an airport with wide open space and lots of concessions, there is a soft spot in our hearts for small regional airports that not only handle far fewer passengers, but reflect the local charm. Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) certainly falls into the latter category.

On a recent visit out west, we flew into the newly rebuilt airport and, we have to say, were quite impressed. The shiny new terminal is only 18 months old, first opening their gates to regional jets at the beginning of December 2010. This is not your typical airport; think about parking directly in front of the terminal and waiting in one line to enter the secure area. Like we said, lots of charm.

This fresh terminal is a completely new building a few hundred feet from the old one—now home to general aviation—which makes for a faster taxi to the runway.

With only Delta and United flying in and out of the airport and usually only one arrival and departure for each, the airport acts as a vital air link to larger cities in the region. This wasn't our first time transiting through Yellowstone; we appreciate the ease of this little gem in the mountains.

Since our last visit, we have noticed more natural light (perfect for "big sky country"), more focus on modern design and local art and the addition of a restaurant. Keep an eye out for the log benches with cattle brands, historical photos, and the bear spray deposit box. Wait, what? Yes, since you cannot pass through security with liquid or aerosols, the bear repellent is off limits.

Yellowstone is far from your typical major port like JFK, O'Hare or Atlanta. It doesn't even have as many flights as most executive airports. Nonetheless, what it does have is a whole lot of charm and even more heart.

[Photo: Rayme Gorniak for Jaunted]

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