Jackson Hole Airport to remain open

A dispute between Jackson Hole Airport in Montana and the Teton County Sheriff’s Office almost closed the airport that services Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Grand Targhee, and Snow King. Riders and skiers would have been stranded with their tickets in their hands having no way of reaching the slopes.

Sheriff Bob Zimmer was going to pull the badges of law enforcement officers at the airport, which would have been a move that would result in the airport closing down at the beginning of December. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires a law enforcement officer to be present during screening. Without that officer, the airport would have been forced to close shop.

“Even though [the airport’s law enforcement officers] were not my employees, they had the power to act in the capacity of a sheriff’s deputy,” Sheriff Zimmer explained in a letter. “I am not comfortable with my accountability for deputies over whom I have little or no control.”

Negotiations between the Town of Jackson, the airport, and the sheriff’s office came to a temporary solution earlier this month. However the plan will only keep the airport open through the winter season. A permanent solution may require Wyoming legislature to expand the policing authority of the airport.

In the meantime, if you’re planning to fly with Delta, United, or American Airlines you will be ok. All three airlines are allowing ski and snowboard baggage to be treated as regular baggage without the extra fees for size.

Make sure you double check with your carrier before you pack for your trip.