Manchester Airport passengers warned of US airport closure

Nestled in the iconic Rocky Mountains sits Aspen, Colorado – a holiday hotspot which attracts millions of tourists from all over the world each year, including the UK.

It’s home to one of the world’s best ski resorts, Aspen Snowmass, which regularly welcomes big-name celebrities, including Mariah Carey, Kate Hudson, Justin and Hailey Bieber, Jennifer Lopez, and the Kardashians.

While you can’t fly directly to Aspen/Pitkin County from Manchester, passengers can catch a connecting flight to the popular US destination.

US airport to close for 7 months with all flights cancelled

The main airport in the area is Aspen/Pitkin County, with around 700,000 passengers travelling through each year.

However, Aspen/Pitkin County Airport is set to close from April 4 until November 19, 2027, so “infrastructure improvement” work can be carried out.

This project will enhance the safety, access, efficiency, and long-term operational reliability at the Colorado hub.

Airport director, Diane Jackson, said: “Our team is committed to coordinating with federal partners, airlines, general aviation partners, and the broader community as we prepare for this important project and the future of the airport.

“This project is a long-term investment in the safety, reliability, and future of Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, and we will continue to engage with our community every step of the way.”

Officials have warned that the project timeline remains subject to change due to weather and other variables.

What will change at Aspen/Pitkin County Airport?

The project will include a full runway reconstruction to bring Aspen/Pitkin in line with current Federal Aviation Administration standards.

Construction of a new terminal and Fixed Based Operator (FBO) facility is also set to begin during the closure period, with preparatory work scheduled for this year.

Services will continue to operate from the existing Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (once it reopens) until the new terminal is completed in 2029.

Aspen Snowmass is a popular spot for skiing and attracts celebrities such as Mariah Carey, Justin and Hailey Bieber and the Kardashians. (Image: Getty)

Nearest alternative airports

While the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport will be closed, there are some nearby options for passengers still wanting to visit the area.

The closest alternatives to Aspen/Pitkin County Airport are:

• Eagle County Regional Airport (around 113km away)
• Grand Junction Regional Airport (201 km)
• Denver International Airport (354 km)

How does this closure affect British travellers?

While there are no direct flights between the UK and Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, several major airports offer connecting flights to the tourist hotspot.

These airports include:

• London Heathrow
• Edinburgh
• Birmingham
• Bristol
• Cardiff
• Glasgow
• Manchester
• Southampton

Your rights if your flight is cancelled or delayed

The major airlines that operate flights between the two include Lufthansa, United Express, Aer Lingus, and KLM.

All these flights will be cancelled for seven months from April 4 until November 19, 2027, while Aspen/Pitkin County Airport is closed, affecting thousands of Brits travelling to the US.

Are you travelling to the US in 2027? Tell us your travel plans in the comments below.