Aspen Airport, explained.
Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE / KASE) is the closest airport to Aspen at 4 miles. It operates a single runway, has frequent weather cancellations, and closes April 23 to May 21, 2026 for required runway maintenance. Below: how ASE works, the 2026 closure, and the most reliable alternatives.
Eagle Mountain Express services Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) only. We don't pick up at ASE. If you fly into ASE, you'll need to arrange ground transport through an ASE-based provider (we don't recommend specific competitors here, but Aspen has multiple options). For travelers willing to fly into EGE instead — 90 minutes from Aspen by ground — we run flat-rate private transfers year-round.
01ASE basics
Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE / KASE) sits at 7,820 ft elevation in a narrow mountain valley. It operates a single runway (8,000 ft) with weight and weather restrictions that make it more weather-vulnerable than most US commercial airports. Direct service is limited compared to EGE — primarily United Express to Denver and seasonal American Eagle from Dallas/Fort Worth and Chicago.
02Why ASE is challenging
ASE's mountain-valley location means winter weather (low ceilings, mountain wave turbulence, blowing snow) frequently cancels or diverts flights. The airport's single runway and weight restrictions also limit aircraft options — only certain regional jets and turboprops can operate at full capacity. Travelers booking ASE flights should always have a backup plan in case of cancellation.
03The 2026 closure (April 23 – May 21)
ASE is closed for 28 days in spring 2026 for required runway maintenance and pavement work that cannot be performed while the airport is operational. The closure is timed for the spring shoulder season between ski and summer to minimize disruption. ASE reopens for normal commercial operations on May 22, 2026.
04Eagle County Regional (EGE) — the recommended alternative
EGE is 68 miles north of Aspen via I-70 West and CO-82 South — about 90 minutes by ground transport. EGE has more direct flights from major US hubs (Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Newark, Phoenix, and San Francisco on United, American, and Delta), longer runways, more reliable weather, and operates 24/7. For most Aspen-bound travelers, EGE is the better choice during the closure window — and arguably year-round.
05Other alternatives
Denver International (DEN) is 220 miles from Aspen — viable but adds 2+ hours of additional drive time vs EGE. Grand Junction Regional (GJT) is 125 miles with limited direct flights. For most travelers, EGE is the practical choice.
06Booking timing during the closure
If your travel dates fall within April 23 – May 21, 2026, book your EGE flight and ground transfer early — demand at EGE spikes during the closure. We recommend booking 48-72 hours ahead for ground transport during this window.
Fly EGE instead
EGE → Aspen is 68 miles, 90 minutes by ground. Direct flights from major US hubs. Eagle Mountain Express handles the EGE pickup from $399 flat-rate per vehicle.
See route detail ↗