Fly High to Telluride: Your Guide to Airlines Serving Montrose-Telluride Regional Airport

So, you’re dreaming of Telluride’s breathtaking peaks and vibrant culture? Excellent choice! Let’s cut right to the chase. The primary airport serving Telluride is the Montrose-Telluride Regional Airport (MTJ), located about an hour and a half drive from Telluride itself. Currently, the major airlines offering scheduled passenger flights into Montrose-Telluride are United Airlines, American Airlines, and Allegiant Air.

Airlines Connecting You to the San Juan Mountains

Understanding which airlines operate at MTJ is crucial for planning your trip. While Telluride has its own airport (TEX), it’s a smaller, more specialized facility primarily catering to private aviation. For commercial flights, Montrose is your gateway.

• United Airlines: United is a significant player at MTJ, typically offering year-round service to hubs like Denver (DEN). Depending on the season, they may also provide direct flights to other major cities such as Chicago (ORD), Houston (IAH), and Newark (EWR). Booking with United often provides access to a wide network of connecting flights, making it a flexible option for travelers coming from diverse locations.

• American Airlines: American is another essential airline serving Montrose. You’ll find seasonal flights primarily connecting through Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Phoenix (PHX). American can be a convenient choice if you’re traveling from or through the Southern United States.

• Allegiant Air: Allegiant offers a different approach, focusing on direct, often less frequent, flights from select cities, often at a lower cost. These are typically seasonal routes. Keep an eye out for Allegiant’s offerings, particularly if you’re flying from cities that aren’t major airline hubs.

It’s important to note that airline schedules, routes, and frequencies can change based on the season, demand, and other factors. Always check directly with the airlines for the most up-to-date information before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Flying to Telluride

Let’s address some common questions travelers have about getting to Telluride via Montrose-Telluride Regional Airport.

1. Is Montrose-Telluride Regional Airport (MTJ) the closest airport to Telluride?

Yes, for commercial flights, MTJ is the closest major airport. Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) exists, but it’s mainly for private planes.

2. How far is Montrose Airport (MTJ) from Telluride?

The drive from Montrose-Telluride Regional Airport to Telluride is approximately 65 miles, usually taking around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on road conditions and traffic.

3. What are the ground transportation options from Montrose Airport to Telluride?

You have several choices:

• Rental Cars: Available at the airport from major companies. Reserve in advance, especially during peak season.
• Shuttle Services: Numerous shuttle companies offer shared and private rides. Pre-booking is highly recommended.
• Private Car Services: More luxurious and direct option, but also the most expensive.
• Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft): Availability can be limited and surge pricing can be high, so don’t rely solely on these.

4. When is the best time to book flights to Montrose (MTJ) for the best deals?

Generally, booking several months in advance can help secure better prices. However, keep an eye out for last-minute deals, especially during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). Be flexible with your travel dates to potentially save money.

5. What time of year are flights to Montrose (MTJ) the most expensive?

Flights are typically most expensive during peak seasons, which include:

• Ski Season: December through March
• Summer: June through August
• Major Holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, and President’s Day weekend

6. Are there any direct flights to Montrose (MTJ) from my city?

This depends on your origin. United generally offers the most direct flights, especially to Denver. American flies from Dallas/Fort Worth and Phoenix. Allegiant offers select direct routes from various cities. Check directly with each airline for their current routes.

7. Does Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) accept commercial flights?

Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) primarily caters to private and charter flights. While limited commercial service has existed in the past, it’s currently not a reliable option for most travelers. Focus on Montrose (MTJ) for commercial flights.

8. What is the airport code for Telluride Regional Airport?

The airport code for Telluride Regional Airport is TEX. Don’t confuse this with MTJ for Montrose.

9. Are there any smaller regional airlines that fly to Montrose-Telluride (MTJ)?

While United, American, and Allegiant are the primary players, smaller regional airlines might occasionally operate charter or seasonal routes. However, these are less common and require thorough research. Check with local travel agencies or aviation websites for any potential options.

10. What should I consider when choosing between different airlines flying to Montrose?

Several factors come into play:

• Price: Compare fares across different airlines.
• Schedule: Choose flights that align with your desired arrival and departure times.
• Layover Time: Shorter layovers are generally preferable, but allow sufficient time to connect.
• Baggage Fees: Factor in baggage fees when comparing overall costs.
• Frequent Flyer Programs: If you’re a member of a frequent flyer program, consider the airline that allows you to earn or redeem miles.

11. Are there any alternative airports to consider besides Montrose (MTJ)?

While Montrose is the closest major airport, you could consider Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO), which is about a 2.5-hour drive to Telluride. However, flights to Durango might require more connections and the drive is longer.

12. What amenities are available at Montrose-Telluride Regional Airport (MTJ)?

MTJ offers essential amenities, including:

• Rental Car Agencies
• Shuttle and Transportation Services
• Restaurant and Snack Bar
• Gift Shop
• Free Wi-Fi
• ATM

While it’s not a huge airport, it provides the necessary conveniences for travelers.

Flying to Telluride requires careful planning, particularly when it comes to choosing the right airline and transportation options. By understanding the airlines serving Montrose-Telluride Regional Airport (MTJ) and considering the factors mentioned above, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to this incredible destination. Happy travels!