Aspen–Pitkin County Airport

Aspen Airport (ASE, KASE)

Aspen–Pitkin County Airport, also known as Sardy Field, is a public airport located three miles northwest of Aspen, Colorado, in Pitkin County. Nestled in the picturesque Roaring Fork Valley, the airport serves as a gateway to the renowned ski resorts of Aspen and Snowmass. It is one of the busiest airports in the United States for its size, primarily due to its proximity to these popular winter destinations.

The airport’s origins date back to the 1940s when it was initially developed as a simple airstrip. Over the decades, it has undergone extensive expansions and modernizations to meet the growing influx of visitors to Aspen. These enhancements have transformed the airport into a state-of-the-art facility capable of handling high volume commercial and private jet traffic.

A key figure in the airport’s development is Walter Paepcke, a notable Chicago industrialist who played a pivotal role in shaping Aspen into a premier cultural and recreational destination. Paepcke’s vision led to the founding of the Aspen Institute and the Aspen Music Festival, which continue to attract global visitors and enhance the region’s appeal as a year-round private jet destination.

About Aspen–Pitkin County Airport

Aspen–Pitkin County Airport is a vital regional transportation link, providing convenient access to one of the most sought-after vacation destinations in the United States. Pitkin County owns the airport and supports a significant amount of general aviation traffic, including private jets, air taxis, and commercial flights.

Due to the surrounding mountainous terrain, Aspen–Pitkin County Airport is known for its challenging approach and departure procedures. Pilots require special training to operate in and out of the airport, making it a unique and demanding destination for aviators.

The airport provides ground transportation options, including rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services to nearby destinations. Passengers can park in both short-term and long-term facilities.

Aspen–Pitkin County Airport: Key Facts

• Airport Codes: 
  • FAA: ASE
  • ICAO: KASE
  • IATA: ASE
• Location (Lat/Long): N39-13.3 / W106-52.1
• Operating Hours: 7 AM to 11 PM
• FBOs: 1 FBO, Atlantic Aviation.
• Runway: 15/33 – 8,006 ft. long
• U.S. Customs: No
• Address: 233 E Airport Rd, Aspen, CO 81611 

Aspen–Pitkin County Airport Fixed-Base Operator (FBO)

Atlantic Aviation is the fixed-base operator (FBO) at Aspen–Pitkin County Airport, a well-known provider of aviation services. They offer many services for private jets and commercial aircraft, ensuring that all aviation needs are met with the highest quality and safety standards while providing passengers with the best experience. 

Atlantic Aviation’s Aspen–Pitkin County Airport facilities include a modern terminal with comfortable passenger lounges, conference rooms, and crew rest areas. The FBO provides essential services such as: 

• Fueling, hangar space, aircraft maintenance, and de-icing. 
• Additionally, ground transportation, catering, and concierge services are available to enhance the travel experience for passengers and crew.
• State-of-the-art technology, including an Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS) for accurate weather reporting and advanced security measures. 

Aspen–Pitkin County Airport: Runways

In 2011, Aspen–Pitkin County Airport expanded the runway to an additional 1000 feet, from 7,006 feet to 8,006 feet, to accommodate larger aircraft. This single asphalt runway is designated 15/33. It is 8,006 feet long and 100 feet wide, accommodating a variety of aircraft, including big commercial jets to private turboprop jets.

Runway Specifications

• Length: 8,006 feet
• Width: 100 feet
• Surface: Asphalt
• Orientation: Runway 15/33

The runway at Aspen–Pitkin County Airport is known for its challenging approach and departure procedures due to the surrounding mountainous terrain. The airport’s 7,820 feet above mean sea level (AMSL) also demands top-notch flight operations.

Aspen–Pitkin County Airport: Noise Program

Aspen–Pitkin County Airport operates under strict noise abatement procedures to minimize the impact of aircraft noise on the surrounding community. The airport has in place a robust noise program that includes curfews, flight path adjustments, and community engagement initiatives.

Noise Abatement Procedures

• Curfew: The airport enforces a curfew that restricts operations between 11 PM and 7 AM to minimize noise impact during the night.
• Flight Path Adjustments: Pilots must follow specific flight paths that reduce noise over residential areas.
• Community Engagement: The airport actively engages with the local community to address noise concerns and implement effective mitigation strategies.

Environmental Commitment

The noise program at Aspen–Pitkin County Airport reflects the airport’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being. The airport’s terminal building incorporates passive solar heating, reflecting the community’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Aspen–Pitkin County Airport: Amenities

Aspen–Pitkin County Airport offers a range of amenities, catering to passengers and crew, providing a seamless travel experience.

• The terminal building has modern amenities, including comfortable seating areas, free Wi-Fi, and charging stations.
• Several dining options, including cafes and restaurants offering a variety of food and beverage choices, are available.
• Passengers can browse through retail shops that offer a selection of travel essentials, souvenirs, and local products.
• The airport provides ground transportation options, including rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services to nearby destinations.
• Accessibility: The airport has facilities to accommodate passengers with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive travel experience.

Aspen, originally established as a mining camp during the Colorado Silver Boom, was named for the plentiful aspen trees in the region. The city flourished in the 1880s and continues to attract locals, second-home buyers, and tourists year-round. Aspen’s four ski areas are a winter highlight for any adventure-lover.

Aspen–Pitkin County Airport: Other Airports

The airports closest to Aspen–Pitkin County Airport are:

1. Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) → 65 miles
2. Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) → 125 miles
3. Denver International Airport (DEN) → 215 miles
4. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) → 390 miles

Aspen–Pitkin County Airport: Popular Private Jet Travel Routes

You can explore our diverse fleet at JetOptions and choose the one that best fits your travel needs. For instance, our clients prefer to fly in various jet categories ranging from light jets to midsize and super-midsize to heavy jets. Some notable jets in these categories are:

• Heavy Jet
  • Challenger 605
  • Gulfstream G550
  • Legacy 600
• Midsize Jet
  • Citation XLS
  • Hawker 850XP
  • Citation VII

Aspen, CO: Things to Explore

Aspen, originally established as a mining camp during the Colorado Silver Boom, was named for the plentiful aspen trees in the region. The city flourished in the 1880s and continues to attract locals, second-home buyers, and tourists year-round. Aspen’s four ski areas are a winter highlight for any adventure-lover.

If you are in Aspen and have some time to spare before your next flight, here are some of the top things this business district has to offer. 

• Maroon Bells: Iconic twin peaks offering stunning views and hiking trails.
• Independence Pass: Scenic mountain pass with breathtaking vistas and winding roads.
• Aspen Mountain (Ajax): Popular ski area with challenging slopes and panoramic views.
• Ashcroft Ghost Town: Historic mining town with preserved buildings and rich history.
• John Denver Sanctuary: Peaceful park dedicated to the famous singer, featuring beautiful gardens and sculptures.
• Crater Lake Trail: Picturesque hiking trail leading to a serene alpine lake.
• White River National Forest: Expansive forest with diverse wildlife, hiking, and camping opportunities.
• Aspen Art Museum: Contemporary art museum showcasing innovative exhibitions and architecture.
• Glenwood Springs: Nearby town known for its hot springs, adventure park, and historic sites.
• Snowmass Village: Family-friendly resort area with skiing, dining, and shopping options.
• Buttermilk Mountain: Ski area famous for hosting the Winter X Games and its beginner-friendly slopes.
• Roaring Fork River: Ideal for fly fishing, whitewater rafting, and scenic river walks.
• Aspen Highlands: Ski resort known for its challenging terrain and stunning views of the Maroon Bells.

Why JetOptions

JetOptions Private Jets offers air charters to and from Aspen Airport for ski season and throughout the year. Our highly respected flight choices include many pricing options, from one-way to round-trip rates, from cities around the globe. Be it vacation or corporate travel, we got you. 

• ARGUS and Wyvern registered company. 
• Book any aircraft, anytime, anywhere, often in 2-3 hours or less. 
• Travel with peace of mind on a plane that meets and exceeds FAA safety standards and is certified by ARGUS and Wyvern. Additionally, the aircraft is insured for $50,000,000 to $250,000,000. 
• 24/7 Complimentary Concierge services include Medical Staff Escorts, Security, Ground Transportation, and Hotels. 
• Access an Aviation Account Executive 24/7.
• Get optimum rates in the market without sacrificing safety
•  Premium aircraft condition is guaranteed.
• Fly in authentic one-way charters, and one-way rates are guaranteed. (Restricted to specific routes)
• Get a complimentary upgrade when available.

Book Colorado with the best and fly a private jet charter for Denver, Aspen, and Telluride, Colorado. Call us or request a quote today.

FAQs

What are the operational hours of Aspen–Pitkin County Airport?

Aspen–Pitkin County Airport operates from 7 AM to 11 PM daily.

How long are the Aspen–Pitkin County Airport runways? 

Aspen–Pitkin County Airport features a single runway that is 8,006 feet long, accommodating a variety of aircraft types.

Which airport is closest to Aspen–Pitkin County Airport?

The closest airport to Aspen–Pitkin County Airport is Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE), located approximately 65 miles away.

What is the Aspen–Pitkin County Airport Code?

The airport code for Aspen–Pitkin County Airport is FAA: ASE, ICAO: KASE, and IATA: ASE.

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