Rifle Garfield County Airport is situated in Rifle, Colorado, USA. Established in 1928, it is the second oldest general aviation airport in the state. It was initially named Garfield County Airport and had a single turf runway. The airport was built as an emergency landing field for military aircraft and to provide general aviation services for the local community.

In the 1950s, the airport underwent several expansions, including the addition of a paved runway and the construction of a terminal building. At the same time, the name was changed to Rifle Garfield County Airport. The name was chosen to pay tribute to the city of Rifle and Garfield County, both of which were instrumental in developing the airport.

The airport code, RIL, is derived from the first two letters of the airport’s name, Rifle. This is a common practice for all airports.

Rifle Garfield County Airport currently offers five flights a day and is served by two airlines: United Express and Great Lakes Airlines. United Express operates daily flights to Denver International Airport, while Great Lakes Airlines offers daily flights to Aspen-Pitkin County Airport.

Rifle Garfield County Airport is a vital part of the local community, providing essential transportation services for travelers, businesspeople, and tourists alike. The airport also serves as a hub for search and rescue operations, as well as for general aviation.

The airport is well-equipped and boasts modern facilities, including a 6,500-foot runway, a terminal building, a control tower, and a fleet of ground support vehicles. The airport also has a restaurant, a bar, and a helipad.

In recent years, the airport has seen a steady increase in the number of flights and passengers. This is largely due to its proximity to popular tourist destinations such as Aspen, Vail, and Beaver Creek. In addition, the airport is located within close proximity to several national parks, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities.

Rifle Garfield County Airport is a key economic driver in the region, providing hundreds of jobs and contributing to the overall growth of the local economy. The airport is also a vital link in the transportation network of western Colorado, connecting people to destinations across the state.