The ultimate Rocky Mountain winter retreat, Aspen, Colorado is a favorite private jet destination for skiing, snowboarding, outdoor adventure – and glitz and glamour, too. It’s notably home to both world-class skiing and luxury retail, giving way to one of the chicest après-ski scenes in the country. 

One of the busiest private jet airports in the county, flying into Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is as convenient (it’s located just three miles from downtown Aspen) as it is thrilling, between the beautiful mountain scenery and the challenging approach. 

High-altitude conditions, a steep approach, surrounding mountain valley terrain, and unpredictable winter weather make ASE notoriously one of the most difficult landings in the world. Fortunately, with careful planning and the appropriate aircraft, flying into Aspen can be as stress-free as any other airport. Read on for our recommendations and considerations when planning your private jet charter to Aspen.

First, a suitable aircraft is key, with the capability to navigate ASE’s unique mountain conditions:

Cessna Citation Sovereign:

The super-midsize Cessna Citation Sovereign is a great choice for non-stop travel to Aspen from either U.S. coast, for up to nine passengers in a largest-in-class cabin. Well-suited to high-altitude terrain, the high-performance jet boasts:

• Rapid climb speed for reduced turbulence
• 47,000 top cruising altitude allowing the Sovereign to fly above weather hazards
• Excellent short-field performance
• Maintains a comfortable pressurized cabin equivalent to 7,230 feet
• Generous 135 ft³ baggage space for skis and other sports equipment

Learn more about our two charter-ready Cessna Citation Sovereigns, the newest addition to our Southern California fleet, here and here. 

Cessna Citation CJ3:

The Cessna Citation CJ3 light jet was specifically designed to operate in extreme weather conditions, making it a top pick for mountain destinations, including Aspen. With a speed and range that rivals that of a midsize jet, it’s well-equipped with features for high-altitude conditions:

• A sophisticated satellite weather system to improve pilot’s ability to navigate weather.
• 45,000 top cruising altitude allowing the CJ3 to fly above weather hazards
• Maintains a comfortable pressurized cabin equivalent to 7,800 feet
• Excellent short-field performance
• Rapid climb rate to high altitude for reduced turbulence 

Learn more about our Cessna Citation CJ3 available for charter, here.

Planning ahead sets the stage for a successful private jet charter into ASE and a timely start to your Aspen vacation:

• Anticipating potential delays is necessary, especially during peak snow season when air traffic is increased and the weather disruptions are frequent. 
• Planning for an early arrival, around daylight hours, puts you on the runway ahead of the airport’s strict curfew – all landings and take-offs must be done prior to sundown.