Testing activity brings bustle to former air base, Boeing lands in Glasgow, Montana

A three-week testing program aimed at quieting airliners is making economic noise in the Glasgow area.

Up to 130 workers have landed in Glasgow and are working at the former Glasgow Air Force Base about 17 miles north of town as part of the program.

The Boeing Co. is teaming with other aviation players, including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, General Electric Transportation, the Goodrich Aerostructures division and All Nippon Airways, to do the testing.

"It’s a big deal for Glasgow," said Diane Brandt, director of the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce.

The workers are staying in motels, eating in restaurants and visiting local merchants.

"You can’t get a motel room in Glasgow," she said, adding some workers have found lodging in Fort Peck, Wolf Point and Malta.

By JAMES E. LARCOMBE Tribune Business Editor

Full Story: http://www.greatfallstribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050812/BUSINESS/508120335/1046/NEWS01