As a member of the community in Pitkin County, Colorado, I - along with many other residents and visitors - rely heavily on the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport. It is essential transportation infrastructure that connects us to the rest of the world and is indirectly responsible for 7,500+ local jobs and nearly a billion in annual business revenue. However, the airport needs significant improvements (made in line with FAA guidelines) to continue serving us safely, effectively, and efficiently into the future. These improvements have been delayed for a decade and have allowed airport infrastructure to reach the end of its useful life.

We are advocating for swift action in four areas: 1) completion and submission of an Airport Layout Plan that is acceptable to the FAA 2) reconstruction of the deteriorating runway and airside 3) development of a new terminal, and 4) support for modern commercial jet aircraft. These improvements will not only enhance safety but also improve reliability, passenger comfort, and connectivity. Airport improvements have been delayed long enough to result in longer shutdowns annually for repairs, costs to repair and maintain the aging airside and terminal infrastructure that have greatly exceed estimates, and airline service that lags behind the comfort, convenience, and reliability that similarly situated mountain resort communities now possess.

Runway and airside reconstruction is critical so we can accommodate modern commercial aircraft and obtain FAA funds for terminal redevelopment. Modern aircraft by necessity (and physics) have longer wings, lighter structures, and superior engine technology that combined make them more fuel efficient and capable. They are also equipped with more advanced avionics and navigation technologies which enhance safety and lead to more consistent and reliable service - especially in low visibility weather conditions. A new terminal will provide better facilities and multi-modal connectivity for residents, visitors, and staff alike, eliminating lines that extend outside the terminal building and crowding that overwhelms the boarding areas.

It's important we act quickly on these improvements so we can secure the dwindling federal funds that were made available for such projects. 

Join us in providing the support the Pitkin County Commissioners and hard-working airport officials need to get it done and move ahead with these much-needed upgrades at Aspen/Pitkin County Airport.

 

 

 

Image of part of the north 2,000' of the runway that has centerline cracking, which increases the risk of foreign object debris ("FOD") - e.g. fragments - on the runway. 

 

 

Image of passengers in the multi-hour security line for TSA when equipment failed.