The launch of a new seasonal air service between Angel Fire in Colfax County and Albuquerque is expected before the end of 2024, according to a recent announcement by local officials. The Village of Angel Fire, Colfax County, and Angel Fire Resort have partnered with Advanced Air to make this long-anticipated connection a reality. The flights will be available during the busiest travel periods, offering more convenient transportation options for residents and visitors.

The air service, set to begin in December 2024, will enhance the accessibility of Angel Fire’s scenic Moreno Valley, which is known for its summer tourism and ski season. Local officials, including Colfax County Commission Chairman Si Trujillo, expressed optimism that the new flight route will bring positive changes to the region. The plan to introduce this route comes as a major development for improving both tourism and local travel.

Seasonal Air Service for Peak Travel Times

Advanced Air will offer flights between Albuquerque International Sunport and Angel Fire Airport during two peak seasons: December through March and June through September. This schedule aligns with Angel Fire’s busiest tourism periods, especially during the winter ski season and the summer months when the area draws visitors for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. This new connection is expected to offer a more seamless travel experience for tourists and second homeowners who frequent the area during these peak times.

Each flight will utilize a nine-passenger King Air 350 turboprop aircraft, ensuring that the service is both efficient and reliable for those traveling between the two locations. Colfax County and Angel Fire Resort leaders have emphasized the importance of this service in promoting the region’s tourism industry while providing improved travel options for local residents. Officials have also highlighted the convenience of the flights, which are expected to offer quick and direct access to Albuquerque’s international airport, reducing travel times and connecting the region more effectively with the rest of the state and beyond.

Boosting Tourism and Local Economy

One of the most anticipated benefits of the new air service is its potential to boost tourism in the Angel Fire region. Colfax County and Angel Fire Resort officials have long been working on bringing commercial air service to the area, with the goal of making it easier for tourists to reach the region’s natural attractions. Mayor BJ Lindsey of Angel Fire emphasized that this new flight service will bring more tourists during peak seasons, helping to sustain local businesses, resorts, and recreational facilities.

In addition to supporting the tourism industry, the flights are expected to improve travel options for local residents. With a direct connection to Albuquerque International Sunport, residents will have better access to larger flight networks, making travel to other parts of the country more convenient. Additionally, the improved connectivity could enhance access to healthcare, as residents of Angel Fire and the surrounding areas will be able to reach specialized medical services in Albuquerque more easily.

The introduction of affordable one-way tickets, priced around $79, makes the new air service accessible to a wide range of travelers, potentially encouraging more frequent trips between Albuquerque and Angel Fire. The route is expected to enhance both the local economy and tourism industry by bringing in more visitors and offering better travel options for those living in the region.

Infrastructure Developments at Angel Fire Airport

In anticipation of the new air service, there have been additional infrastructure developments planned at Angel Fire Airport. The Village of Angel Fire is working with Enterprise Rental Car in nearby Taos to provide on-site car rental services at the airport, ensuring that passengers have easy access to transportation upon arrival. Additionally, plans include the creation of more long-term parking options and the introduction of a restaurant vendor to offer food and beverages to travelers.

These developments are part of a broader effort to improve the overall passenger experience at Angel Fire Airport and support the growing influx of visitors expected with the launch of the new air service. The improvements are also expected to contribute to the long-term success of the air route by making it a more attractive and convenient option for travelers.

Financial Support and Operational Control

The new air service is being supported by a $1.4 million Rural Air Service Enhancement grant from the New Mexico Aviation Department. This funding has been instrumental in making the flight route possible and will help ensure the sustainability of the service moving forward.

Additionally, the Colfax County Commission has voted in favor of exploring options to transfer operational control of Angel Fire Airport to the Village of Angel Fire. This move is expected to streamline airport management and improve the airport’s ability to meet the needs of its growing passenger base.

Bullet Points:

New flights expected to boost tourism during peak summer and ski seasons.

Affordable ticket prices and enhanced infrastructure to attract more visitors.

Broader Implications for Regional Travel

The introduction of this new air service has the potential to reshape the travel landscape in northern New Mexico. By providing a direct flight option between Albuquerque and Angel Fire, the region becomes more accessible not only to tourists but also to second homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a quick getaway. As the new route cuts down travel time and offers affordable flights, the area may see a significant uptick in visitor numbers, which could lead to further developments in the local tourism infrastructure.

Beyond tourism, this flight route enhances the region’s appeal for residents who frequently travel to Albuquerque for work, healthcare, or personal reasons. The improved accessibility to the state’s largest city also means that Angel Fire could become a more attractive location for new businesses and investors looking to tap into its growing tourism potential.

Looking Forward: Impact on Travelers

The new flight service between Angel Fire and Albuquerque will offer both local residents and visitors a more efficient way to travel between northern New Mexico and one of the state’s major urban centers. For tourists, this means easier access to one of New Mexico’s most beloved outdoor destinations, where skiing, hiking, and mountain biking opportunities abound.

For local residents, the service provides a reliable connection to the broader flight networks at Albuquerque International Sunport, improving access to both domestic and international travel options. As the area grows in popularity, this new connection is expected to play a pivotal role in supporting the region’s development, tourism growth, and quality of life.

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