Aspen Airport Proposes 140% Landing Fee Increase Ahead of 2027 Runway Closure
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) in Colorado is proposing a substantial increase in general aviation landing fees for 2027 as it prepares for a nearly eight-month runway reconstruction closure expected to sharply reduce traffic and revenue.
Under the proposal, general aviation landing fees would rise starting January 1, 2027:
- General aviation: From $13.76 to $33.09 per 1,000 pounds of aircraft weight. For a 50,000-pound maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) aircraft, the fee for a single landing would increase from $688 to approximately $1,655.
- Airlines with operating agreements: From $12.05 to $31.84 per 1,000 pounds, an increase of 164%.
The airport projects 50% fewer passenger boardings in 2027: approximately 190,500, compared with 372,900 in 2026.
The runway is scheduled to close from April 4 through November 19, 2027, as part of a broader $575 million airport modernization program approved by Pitkin County voters. No commercial or general aviation operations will be permitted during the closure. Airport officials say the proposed fee increases are needed to cover ongoing operating expenses during the period without flight activity.
Pitkin County commissioners are scheduled to hold a public hearing on the proposed rates on November 4, 2026. If approved, the new fees would take effect January 1, 2027.
The modernization program also includes a new passenger terminal and FBO facility. The replacement terminal is not expected to be completed until 2029.
Source: GlobalAir.com — October 29, 2026