Mountain · Best season: Dec–Mar, Jun–Aug
Telluride, CO
The Highest Commercial Airport in the US
Telluride Regional Airport sits at 9,070 feet — the highest commercial-use airport in the United States. The 6,870-foot runway, combined with altitude and mountain terrain, limits operations to turboprops and light jets. It's one of the most challenging and rewarding approaches in private aviation.
Most private jet travelers opt for Montrose Regional (MTJ), a 65-mile drive to Telluride with a full-length runway accommodating all aircraft. Grand Junction (GJT) is a secondary fallback. The town itself is a former mining village turned luxury ski and film festival destination, with a character unlike any other Colorado mountain town.
- Primary Airport
- Telluride Regional (TEX)
- Alternate Airports
- Montrose (MTJ), Grand Junction (GJT)
- Best Season
- Dec–Mar, Jun–Aug
- Elevation
- 9,070 ft — highest in US
Typical charter cost to Telluride
One-way estimates including a segment fee; actual quotes vary with dates and positioning.
| From | Light jet | Super-mid | Heavy jet |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York (Teterboro)1696 nm | $18k–$30k | $25k–$37k | $35k–$60k |
| Los Angeles (Van Nuys)605 nm | $9k–$13k | $12k–$17k | $17k–$28k |
| Dallas (Love Field)671 nm | $9k–$14k | $13k–$18k | $18k–$30k |
| Palm Beach1681 nm | $18k–$30k | $25k–$36k | $34k–$60k |
Operators serving Telluride
When to fly
Peak season in Telluride is Dec–Mar, Jun–Aug — strongest demand around winter and summer. Book 2–4 weeks ahead in season; slot and ramp space at KTEX tighten around holidays and major events.
Alternate airports
When KTEX is slot-restricted or weathered in.
