Is Aspen Airport closing in 2026?
Yes. Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is closed from April 23 through May 21, 2026 — a 28-day window — for required runway maintenance. The airport will reopen for normal commercial operations on May 22, 2026.
01Why ASE is closing
ASE operates a single runway that requires periodic maintenance and pavement work. This work cannot be performed while the airport is operational. The closure is timed for the spring shoulder season between ski and summer travel to minimize disruption.
02What to do during the closure
Fly into Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) instead — 68 miles from Aspen, 90 minutes by private transfer. EGE has direct commercial flights from Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Newark, Phoenix, and San Francisco. Pre-booking your private transfer is strongly recommended because demand at EGE spikes during the closure.
03Other options
Denver International (DEN) is also viable but adds 2+ hours of additional drive time vs EGE. Grand Junction Regional (GJT) is 125 miles with limited flight options. For most travelers, EGE is the best alternative.