PITKIN COUNTY, CO (November 21, 2024) – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved the updated Airport Layout Plan (ALP) for the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE), initiating a multi-year process to modernize the airport and align it with community goals.
The ALP, a facilities planning document required by the FAA, serves as a critical roadmap for implementing community-driven goals identified in the ASE Vision Common Ground Recommendations. These recommendations were developed through extensive collaboration with local residents, stakeholders, and experts. The ALP focuses on creating a safer, cleaner, and quieter airport environment—aligning with the community’s desire for an airport that supports sustainability, minimizes environmental impact, and enhances the overall quality of life in the Roaring Fork Valley. This approach aims to address concerns about noise, emissions, and operational safety while ensuring that the airport remains a vital hub for residents, visitors, and the local economy.
“It’s not just about infrastructure; it’s about the role our airport plays in the lives of our residents and visitors,” said Rich Englehart, Deputy County Manager. “The Board of County Commissioners has championed this vision, by ensuring that the ASE meets the highest standards of safety and reflects Pitkin County values”
Approval of the ALP also unlocks access to federal funding for critical airport projects, including a new terminal designed to improve passenger experience, safety enhancements, and infrastructure updates. These projects will be developed with input from the community to ensure they meet long-term needs while balancing environmental stewardship and operational efficiency. As the modernization process begins, the ALP serves as a framework to guide the years of planning, design, and construction ahead, with the ultimate goal of achieving a shared vision for the future of Aspen/Pitkin County Airport.
“This approval allows us to move forward in aligning our airport’s future with the needs and values of our community while meeting FAA requirements,” said Dan Bartholomew, Aspen/Pitkin County Airport Director. “The ALP provides a comprehensive framework to prioritize safety, improve the traveler experience, and advance our commitment to sustainability.”
The Pitkin County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved the updated ALP on November 20, 2024, following an extensive review process. With FAA approval now secured, the ALP will guide the ASE Airport Modernization Program, facilitating a strategic and phased approach to improvements.
Key highlights of the modernization program include:
Enhanced safety measures for airport operations.
Development of sustainable infrastructure to reduce environmental impacts.
Improved passenger access and terminal facilities.
For more information about the ASE Airport Modernization Program and the Airport Layout Plan, visit aspenairport.com