Colorado Springs Airport serves as the gateway to the Pikes Peak region. Located just 6 miles southeast of downtown, it offers convenient access for travelers.
The airport handles over 1.5 million passengers each year, with flights to major U.S. cities. COS, as it’s known by its airport code, features modern amenities and shorter security lines than larger hubs.
Visitors flying into COS can quickly reach popular attractions like Garden of the Gods and the U.S. Air Force Academy. The airport’s location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Colorado’s natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
History and Development
Colorado Springs Airport has a rich history spanning nearly a century. It began as a military airfield before evolving into a joint civil-military airport serving the region.
Military Beginnings
The airport started as a military airfield in 1927. The U.S. Army Air Corps used it for training and operations. During World War II, it played a key role in preparing pilots for combat.
The original terminal building was built in 1942. It featured an Art Deco style. This design was common for public buildings of that era.
In 1976, the terminal was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This recognized its architectural and historical value.
Transition to Civil-Military Airport
After World War II, the airport began serving civilian flights. It kept its military functions while adding commercial service.
The City of Colorado Springs took over airport operations in 1966. This marked a shift towards more civilian use.
Western Pacific Airlines made the airport its hub in 1995. This brought more flights and passengers to Colorado Springs.
Expansion and Renovations
The airport has grown over the years to meet increasing demand. A new terminal opened in 1994 to handle more travelers.
In 2005, a $38 million project expanded the terminal. This added new gates and improved passenger amenities.
Recent upgrades include a pavement rehabilitation project. This work improved runways and taxiways for safer operations.
The airport continues to balance military and civilian needs. It serves as both a commercial airport and a base for military aviation.
Airport Infrastructure
Colorado Springs Airport has modern facilities to handle passenger and cargo traffic. Its infrastructure includes a terminal building, concourses, and runways designed for commercial and military operations.
Terminal Features
The terminal at Colorado Springs Airport spans 280,000 square feet. It has two levels with amenities for travelers. The first floor houses ticketing counters, baggage claim, and rental car desks. Upstairs, passengers find security checkpoints and access to gates.
Food options include cafes and restaurants. Shops sell travel essentials and local souvenirs. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Charging stations let travelers power up devices before flights.
Concourses and Gates
Colorado Springs Airport has a single concourse with 12 gates. Gates 1-6 are on the east side, while gates 7-12 are on the west. Each gate has seating areas and information displays.
Jetways connect planes directly to the terminal building. This lets passengers board without going outside. Some smaller planes use ground boarding via stairs.
The concourse design allows for easy navigation. Signs clearly mark gate numbers and airline locations. Restrooms and vending machines are placed at regular intervals.
Runway Details
The airport has three paved runways:
- Runway 17L/35R: 13,501 feet long
- Runway 17R/35L: 11,022 feet long
- Runway 13/31: 8,269 feet long
These runways can handle various aircraft types, from small private planes to large commercial jets. The longest runway allows for takeoffs and landings of heavy cargo planes.
The airport sits at an elevation of 6,187 feet above sea level. This high altitude impacts aircraft performance. Runways are equipped with modern lighting and navigation aids for safe operations in different weather conditions.
Traveler Amenities and Services
Colorado Springs Airport offers a range of amenities and services to make travel more comfortable and convenient. From dining options to business facilities, the airport aims to meet travelers’ needs.
Dining and Shopping
The Food Court at Colorado Springs Airport has several eateries to satisfy hungry travelers. Options include a coffee shop for quick drinks and snacks. There’s also a sit-down restaurant serving full meals. Vending machines are available for 24/7 access to drinks and snacks.
For shopping, the airport has a gift shop. It sells souvenirs, books, and travel essentials. Travelers can pick up last-minute items they may have forgotten to pack.
Connectivity and Business
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. This lets passengers stay connected while waiting for flights. Charging stations are placed in seating areas to keep devices powered up.
A Business Center provides a quiet space for work. It has desks, power outlets, and printing services. This area is useful for travelers who need to catch up on emails or finish projects before flying.
Accessibility and Comfort
The airport has made efforts to be accessible to all travelers. Wheelchair services are available upon request. There are also accessible restrooms throughout the terminal.
For added comfort, the airport has comfortable seating areas. These spaces let passengers relax before their flights. Water fountains are placed near gates for easy access.
The Baggage Claim Area is designed for quick and easy luggage retrieval. Clear signs guide travelers to the right carousel. Ground Transportation options, including taxis and rental cars, are located just outside the terminal for convenient travel to final destinations.
Airline Information
Colorado Springs Airport serves several major carriers and offers charter services. It provides connections to multiple destinations across the United States.
Major Carriers and Destinations
United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines operate flights from Colorado Springs Airport. These carriers connect passengers to major hubs like Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Atlanta.
Southwest Airlines began service in 2021, adding routes to Denver, Las Vegas, and Phoenix. Frontier Airlines also flies from Colorado Springs, focusing on leisure destinations.
The airport offers non-stop flights to over 10 cities. Popular destinations include Chicago, Los Angeles, and Orlando. Seasonal routes expand travel options during peak periods.
Charter Services
Charter flights provide flexible travel from Colorado Springs Airport. These services cater to groups, businesses, and specialized travel needs.
Companies like Key Lime Air offer on-demand charter flights. They serve smaller airports not reached by major airlines.
Some charters focus on ski destinations in winter. Others provide transport for military personnel and their families.
Charter services add to the airport’s flight options. They fill gaps left by scheduled airlines and meet unique travel demands.
Transportation and Accessibility
Colorado Springs Airport offers several options for travelers to get to and from the airport. Convenient ground transportation and car rental services make it easy to reach your destination.
Getting To and From the Airport
Mountain Metropolitan Transit provides bus service to the airport. Route 19 connects the airport to downtown Colorado Springs. Buses run every 30 minutes on weekdays and hourly on weekends.
Taxis, rideshares, and shuttles are available curbside outside the terminal. The trip to downtown takes about 15-20 minutes by car.
Many local hotels offer free shuttle service for guests. Check with your hotel to see if this option is available.
Rental Cars and Public Transport
Several major car rental companies have counters at the airport. These include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. Rental car pickup is located just across from the terminal building.
For those who prefer public transit, Mountain Metropolitan Transit buses connect the airport to other parts of Colorado Springs and El Paso County. Bus fare is $1.75 for a single ride or $4 for a day pass.
Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft also operate at the airport. Pickup areas are clearly marked outside the terminal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Colorado Springs Airport offers various services and amenities for travelers. Here are answers to some common questions about the airport.
What dining options are available at the Colorado Springs Airport?
The airport has a few dining choices. Travelers can grab coffee and snacks at a cafe near the gates. There’s also a bar and grill serving drinks and casual meals. Vending machines are available for quick snacks and drinks.
How can I find out about current flights and schedules at the Colorado Springs Airport?
The airport’s website shows real-time flight info. It lists arrivals, departures, and any delays. Passengers can also check with their airline directly. Flight tracking apps often have up-to-date details too.
What are the parking facilities and rates at Colorado Springs Airport?
Colorado Springs Airport has several parking options. Short-term parking is close to the terminal. Long-term parking lots are a bit farther but cheaper. There’s also an economy lot for extended stays. Rates vary based on the lot and length of stay.
Which airlines operate flights to and from Colorado Springs Airport?
Several major airlines fly to and from Colorado Springs. These include American Airlines, Delta, and United. Some smaller regional carriers also serve the airport. Flight options depend on the season and demand.
Does Colorado Springs Airport have a TSA PreCheck option?
Yes, Colorado Springs Airport offers TSA PreCheck. This program speeds up security screening for eligible travelers. PreCheck lanes are usually faster than regular security lines.
Where can I find a map of Colorado Springs Airport terminals?
Maps of the airport are on its official website. They show the layout of the terminal, gates, and services. Paper maps are also available at info desks in the airport. Signs throughout the terminal help guide passengers.
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