The Eagle County Regional Airport in Colorado is gearing up for a busy winter season with flights to 16 destinations, thanks in part to a $1. 5 million contribution from Core Transit. This is a significant increase from previous years, with enplanements (passengers boarding flights) up 25% in 2024 and more than 30% over the past three years.

According to airport director David Reid and Vail Valley Partnership CEO Chris Romer, the airport has seen continuous growth in visitation since 2018. In summer 2024, United Airlines added flights to Chicago and Houston, and in winter 2024-25, Alaska Airlines and Frontier Airlines also began flying to the airport.

This increase in flights has resulted in a boost to the local economy, with the average passenger spending $3,000 during their 5. 6-night stay, compared to the typical visitor’s 2. 9-night stay. In 2019, the airport added $650 million per year to the local economy, and this number grew to nearly $800 million per year in 2020.

Previously, the EGE Air Alliance raised funds from local municipalities to cover minimum revenue guarantees for new flights. However, with the creation of Core Transit and its annual $1. 2 million allocation to the EGE Air Alliance, the airport has seen even more growth and success. Romer has requested an additional $1. 5 million contribution from Core Transit for the upcoming winter season, citing the need for more flights and the budget surplus from the previous year.

This winter, the airport will offer flights to 16 destinations, including new routes to Charlotte, Washington D. C. , Minneapolis, and New York. These flights have been secured with a combination of minimum revenue guarantees and free-market flights, which are not supported by any guarantees due to the airport’s competitive market.

The EGE Air Alliance is also continuing its local flight rebate program, which offers a $100 rebate to Eagle County residents who use the minimum revenue guarantee-supported flights.

Overall, the Eagle County Regional Airport is experiencing substantial growth and success, thanks to strategic partnerships and the support of Core Transit. With the upcoming winter season and the addition of new flights, the airport is expected to continue to contribute to the local economy and provide convenient travel options for residents and visitors alike.