Elizabeth, Colorado: Your Guide to Nearby Airports and Aviation Services
Elizabeth sits in the foothills of the Front Range, about 30 miles east of the Denver metropolitan area. With a 2023 population of roughly 1,300 residents and an elevation of 5,800 feet, the town is a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts heading to the Arkansas River Valley and the nearby Elbert County historic sites. Because the town itself does not host a commercial runway, travelers rely on a network of regional and international airports that lie within a 50‑mile radius. This directory pinpoints the exact locations, driving times, and services that matter to anyone searching for an "airport in Elizabeth" or "Elizabeth airport".
Airport Locations Serving Elizabeth, Colorado
The following airports are the most practical options for Elizabeth residents, business visitors, and tourists. Distances are measured from the center of town at the intersection of Main Street and County Road 24, and travel times reflect typical weekday traffic.
Denver International Airport (DEN) – Main Commercial Hub
Denver International Airport, located at 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249, is the largest airport in the state and handles more than 100 million passengers annually. The airport sits approximately 45 miles east of Elizabeth, reachable in 45–55 minutes via US‑285 N, I‑70 E, and the E‑470 tollway. DEN features six runways, the longest measuring 16,000 feet, allowing it to accommodate wide‑body international flights. Terminal 1, 2, and 3 together provide 182 gates, 24‑hour security, and a full suite of customs facilities for arrivals from abroad. The on‑site airport office is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering ticketing, baggage assistance, and traveler information.
Centennial Airport (APA) – Private and Corporate Aviation Near Elizabeth
Centennial Airport, situated at 2600 Airport Road, Englewood, CO 80112, is a premier reliever airport for corporate jets and private aircraft. It lies roughly 30 miles west of Elizabeth, a 20‑25‑minute drive along US‑285 N and CO‑470 W. APA boasts three asphalt runways, the longest at 8,000 feet, and hosts more than 150,000 aircraft operations each year. The airport is home to three Fixed‑Base Operators (FBOs)—Signature Flight Support, Atlantic Aviation, and Sheltair—each offering 24‑hour fuel, hangar space, and concierge services. Although there are no scheduled commercial airlines, the airport’s customs pre‑clearance facility enables direct international private‑flight arrivals.
Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC) – General‑Aviation Option North of Elizabeth
Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport is located at 2000 West 124th Avenue, Broomfield, CO 80020, about 45 miles north of Elizabeth via US‑285 N, I‑76 W, and CO‑121. The airport handles roughly 140,000 annual operations and serves both corporate and recreational pilots. BJC features a 9,000‑foot primary runway and two secondary runways, as well as a full‑service FBO, Signature Flight Support, which provides 24‑hour fuel, pilot lounges, and aircraft maintenance. The airport also includes a small passenger terminal used for occasional charter services, making it a convenient alternative for travelers who prefer a quieter environment than Denver International.
Elbert County Airfield (40V) – Small General‑Aviation Field Near Kiowa
For ultra‑local pilots, the Elbert County Airfield sits 15 miles south of Elizabeth near the town of Kiowa. Identified by the FAA as 40V, this grass‑strip field offers a single 2,800‑foot runway and is primarily used for flight training, agricultural spraying, and recreational flying. While the airfield does not provide fuel or passenger services, it serves as a valuable hub for local flight schools and hobbyist aviators who live in the Elizabeth area.
How to Reach an Airport from Elizabeth, Colorado
Elizabeth’s location at the junction of US‑285 and County Road 24 gives drivers quick access to the major interstate system. Below are step‑by‑step directions for the three most popular airports, plus information on public‑transport options that can bridge the gap for those without a car.
Driving from Elizabeth to Denver International Airport
1. Head north on US‑285 N toward Denver. 2. Merge onto I‑70 E after 12 miles. 3. Take exit 4 for E‑470 S toward Aurora. 4. Follow E‑470 S for 17 miles, then exit onto Peña Blvd. 5. Continue straight for 2 miles; the airport’s main entrance will be on your left. The trip typically takes 45‑55 minutes, depending on rush‑hour traffic on I‑70 and E‑470.
Driving from Elizabeth to Centennial Airport
1. Take US‑285 N for 8 miles. 2. Exit onto CO‑470 W toward Englewood. 3. Stay on CO‑470 W for 12 miles, then follow signs for Airport Road. 4. Turn left onto Airport Road; the main apron and terminal are directly ahead. The drive is about 20‑25 minutes and offers scenic views of the foothills as you descend toward the Denver metro area.
Public‑Transit and Shuttle Options
While there is no direct commuter rail to any of the airports, the Regional Transportation District (RTD) runs a limited “Airport Express” bus from the Aurora Metro Center to Denver International Airport. Elizabeth residents can catch the RTD Route 31 bus at the Aurora Transit Center (approximately 30 minutes north of town) and transfer to the Express service. Additionally, several private shuttle companies—such as Colorado Airport Shuttle and Peak Express—provide door‑to‑door service from Elizabeth to both DEN and APA for a flat fee of $70‑$90 per passenger.
Airport Services and Facilities Available to Elizabeth Travelers
Understanding the amenities at each airport helps you plan a smoother journey, whether you are catching a commercial flight, arranging a private charter, or simply renting a car for a road trip into the Rockies.
Terminal Amenities at Denver International Airport
DEN’s Jeppesen Terminal houses over 80 dining options, ranging from fast‑casual chains like Chipotle to upscale restaurants such as Elway’s. The airport also features a 3‑hour free Wi‑Fi network, a 24‑hour medical clinic, and the iconic “United Airlines Concourse A” art installations. For business travelers, there are 12 airline lounges, including the United Polaris Lounge and the American Airlines Admirals Club, each offering complimentary refreshments, showers, and workstations. Rental‑car agencies—Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, and others—operate a consolidated Rental Car Center reachable via an automated people mover from the main terminal.
Business Services at Centennial Airport
Centennial Airport’s FBOs provide private lounges, conference rooms, and on‑site customs clearance for international private‑flight arrivals. The airport’s “Centennial Concierge” service can arrange ground transportation, catering, and hotel bookings within minutes of landing. For pilots, there are full‑service maintenance shops, a flight‑training academy, and a 24‑hour weather briefing station. Although there are no scheduled airlines, the airport frequently hosts corporate shuttles for Denver‑based companies, making it a popular choice for executives who value speed and privacy.
Ground Transportation and Rental Car Centers Near Elizabeth
Both Denver International and Centennial Airports maintain extensive rental‑car fleets. At DEN, the Rental Car Center offers over 30,000 vehicles, with shuttle service running every 5‑7 minutes. At APA, the on‑site rental desk operated by Enterprise provides a smaller selection but includes specialty vehicles such as SUVs and vans for mountain trips. In addition, ride‑share services (Uber, Lyft) are readily available at all three airports, with designated pick‑up zones clearly marked on the arrivals level. For travelers who prefer public transit, the RTD A Line commuter train connects Denver Airport to downtown Denver, where you can transfer to the B Line for service to the Englewood area near Centennial Airport.
International Airports
An international airport is a vital component of any major metropolitan area. It connects domestic and international travelers, providing them with a means to connect to the rest of the world.
An international airport is a large airport that is equipped to handle both domestic and international flights. It also has a significant economic impact on the local community.
These major Colorado Airports generate thousands of jobs and contribute billions of dollars to the local economy through tourism and other related industries.
A large international airport also offers a variety of amenities for travelers. These can include shopping centers, dining options, lounges, and other services such as currency exchange and luggage storage.
Private Airports
Private airports, also known as general aviation airports, are airports that are not open to commercial airlines and are used primarily by private aircraft.
One of the main benefits of a private airport is the exclusivity and privacy it offers.
These airports are often used by high-profile individuals, such as celebrities and business executives, who value their privacy and want to avoid the crowds and security lines of commercial airports.
Private airports also offer more flexibility and convenience for aircraft owners. They can also be used for training pilots and hosting aviation events.
There are 0 Private Airport in Elizabeth, Colorado.
Regional Airports
Regional airports are smaller airports that serve a rural geographic region, such as a smaller city or county with a population of less than 100,000.
Small airports mostly offer flights within the same country, but some may offer flights to nearby countries.
One of the main advantages of regional airports is their convenience. They also tend to have shorter security lines and fewer crowds, making the overall travel experience more enjoyable.
There are 0 Regional Airport in Elizabeth, Colorado.
Municipal Airports
Municipal airports which are also called "public airports" are owned and run by local governments like cities and counties.
Most of the time, they are smaller airports that serve a certain area and have mostly domestic flights, but some may also have flights to nearby countries.
One of the main advantages of municipal airports is their accessibility. They are often located in or near major cities, making them a convenient option for travelers.
Municipal airports provide a vital link for businesses in the region, allowing them to easily connect to other parts of the country.
There are 0 Municipal Airport in Elizabeth, Colorado.
Local Airports
There are 5 Local Airport in Elizabeth, Colorado.
Dietrichs Airport
Circle 8 Ranch Airport
Pine View Airport
D Bar D Airport
Safer Airport
Airports near Elizabeth
Frequently Asked Questions — Elizabeth Airport Services
What is the closest airport to Elizabeth, Colorado for commercial flights?
The nearest commercial airport to Elizabeth is Denver International Airport (DEN), located about 45 miles east of town. The drive via US‑285 N and I‑70 E typically takes 45‑55 minutes, making it the most convenient option for scheduled airline service.
Where is the airport office in Elizabeth, Colorado and what are its hours?
Elizabeth does not have its own airport office, but the closest staffed airport office is at Denver International Airport’s Customer Service Center, 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249. The office operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing ticketing, baggage assistance, and traveler information.
How far is Denver International Airport from the historic downtown area of Elizabeth?
Denver International Airport is approximately 45 miles (72 kilometers) from Elizabeth’s historic downtown, measured from the intersection of Main Street and County Road 24. The route follows US‑285 N to I‑70 E and then the E‑470 tollway, with an average travel time of about 50 minutes under normal traffic conditions.
Can I find a rental car service near Elizabeth, Colorado airport options?
Yes. Both Denver International Airport and Centennial Airport host full‑service rental‑car centers. At DEN, the Rental Car Center offers brands such as Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise and is reachable via an automated people mover. At Centennial Airport, Enterprise operates an on‑site desk with a selection of SUVs and vans ideal for trips into the Rocky Mountains.
Which airport near Elizabeth, Colorado offers the fastest route to Rocky Mountain National Park?
Centennial Airport (APA) provides the quickest driving route to Rocky Mountain National Park for Elizabeth travelers. From APA, you can take CO‑470 W to I‑70 W and then US‑36 W, a total distance of roughly 115 miles that can be covered in about 2 hours 15 minutes, compared with a longer 2‑hour‑30‑minute drive from Denver International Airport.
For additional details on airport parking rates, airline schedules, or to arrange a private shuttle from Elizabeth to any of the airports listed above, please contact the Elbert County Visitor Center at (303) 555‑0123 or visit the official airport websites. Updated information on construction projects, seasonal weather impacts, and COVID‑19 health protocols is posted regularly on each airport’s news feed.