Exploring One of the World's Most Challenging Airport: Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE) in the Heart of the Rocky Mountains

"Adventure is the essence of life."?- Dick Rutan, piloted Voyager aircraft around the world non-stop

Check out a snowy arrival into ASE from the cockpit of a Bombardier CRJ 700: https://youtu.be/B3i_MqqYSjg

Exploring One of the World's Most Challenging Airport: Aspen-Pitkin County Airport in the Heart of the Rocky Mountains

Aspen Airport, officially known as Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (KASE / ASE), is located in the scenic town of Aspen, Colorado which services an exclusive Colorado mountain community frequented by wealthy and renowned individuals. At 7,820' MSL, the airport is surrounded by mountains, making departure difficult for any aircraft. It is renowned for this challenging approach, and its unique location nestled in the Rocky Mountains. This airport is unlike any other in the world, with its high altitude and treacherous terrain making it an unpopular destination amongst pilots. Pilots can typically execute the visual approach into Aspen during the summer. Winter, however, can be a different affair.

The Epicenter of the Roaring Fork Valley

The airport's location in the heart of the Roaring Fork Valley in the midst of the Rockies presents a significant challenge for pilots. The mountainous terrain around Aspen Airport creates turbulent winds and downdrafts that can make landing extremely difficult. The high altitude of the airport, at an elevation of 7,820 feet, also means that aircraft require more runway to take off and land, which can be challenging for pilots. In some cases aircraft will not fully fuel when departing Aspen to assist in performance as Aspen does not have an incredibly long runway, measuring in at 8,006 feet. Recently, they spent millions of dollars to widen the runway to 100 feet specifically so they could accommodate the incredibly wide wingspan of the Gulfstream G650!

In addition to the challenging terrain, Aspen Airport is also known for its unpredictable weather conditions. Pilots must be prepared to face sudden changes in weather, such as heavy snowstorms or high winds, which can make landing and takeoff extremely difficult. Did we mention there is only one way in and one way out? Extreme weather conditions also make it challenging to initiate a "go-around," a maneuver that pilots use to abort a landing and take off again.

Minimums

The minimums required to land at Aspen Airport are also higher than at most other airports. The airport's unique approach requires pilots to be specially trained and certified to land there. Pilots must have an Instrument Flight Rating (IFR) certification, and their aircraft must be equipped with the latest technology, such as precision approach systems, to ensure a safe landing.?

Go-Around + Diversions

If a go-around is required, there are not any convenient alternate airports in the area. The best alternates for Aspen is either Eagle / Vail or Rifle which all require a lengthy drive on highway 82 (one of the most dangerous roads in the USA), or even through Glenwood Canyon on I-70 which can be incredibly treacherous in winter conditions and can even be closed for hours at a time. This means that pilots must be extremely careful when landing at Aspen Airport and have a backup plan in case of an emergency. Worst case scenario they will divert back to Centennial (APA) or Denver (DEN) or possibly even Rocky Mountain Metro (BJC).?

Despite its unique challenges, Aspen Airport is an incredibly popular destination for tourists and skiers who visit the area not to mention one of our favorite mountain towns in the world. The airport's location in the heart of the Roaring Fork Valley surrounded by the Rockies and all its stunning scenery, makes it an attractive destination for private pilots and commercial airlines alike. Aspen Airport also offers a world-class experience for passengers, with its modern facilities and excellent customer service. Stay tuned as ASE is getting a new terminal and a refurbishment on the rest!?

In conclusion, Aspen Airport is a unique destination that presents significant challenges for pilots. Its high altitude, unpredictable weather conditions, and treacherous terrain make it one of the most difficult airports in the world to land at. Pilots must be specially trained and certified to land there, and their aircraft must be equipped with the latest technology. Despite its challenges, Aspen Airport is an attractive destination for tourists and skiers who visit the area, and its world-class facilities make it a top choice for private pilots and commercial airlines.