Your Durango Trip Starts Here: Airport Choices
Planning a trip to Durango, Colorado? The gateway to your adventure starts with choosing the right airport. While Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) is the closest option, several other airports offer varying levels of convenience and cost, making your choice dependent on your priorities. This guide will break down the pros and cons of each, helping you select the perfect starting point for your Durango escapade.
What are the closest airports to Durango, Colorado?
Durango is conveniently served by its own airport, DRO, but larger airports in surrounding areas offer more flight options and potentially lower fares. The main alternatives include Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), and even Denver International Airport (DIA). Let's delve into the specifics of each.
Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO): The Closest Option
DRO is the most convenient airport if you prioritize minimizing travel time to Durango. The journey from the airport to your destination is short and straightforward, often under 30 minutes. However, this convenience often comes at a price: fewer flight options and potentially higher airfares compared to larger airports.
Pros:
- Closest to Durango: Minimal travel time.
- Convenient: Easy access to rental cars and local transportation.
- Charming Small-Town Vibe: A less hectic airport experience.
Cons:
- Limited Flight Options: Fewer airlines and routes available.
- Higher Airfares: Prices tend to be more expensive than larger hubs.
- Potentially Fewer Amenities: May have fewer services and restaurants compared to larger airports.
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ): A Larger Hub with More Choices
ABQ is a significantly larger airport than DRO, offering a wider range of airlines and flight options, often at lower prices. The trade-off is a considerably longer drive to Durango—approximately 4-5 hours. This extended travel time should be a crucial factor in your decision. Consider renting a car for the drive, as public transportation options are limited.
Pros:
- More Flight Options & Lower Fares: Greater airline choices and competitive pricing.
- Larger Airport Amenities: More restaurants, shops, and services available.
- More Frequent Flights: Higher frequency of flights, increasing scheduling flexibility.
Cons:
- Significantly Longer Drive to Durango: Adds considerable travel time.
- Rental Car Required: Public transportation to Durango is not feasible.
Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ): A Middle Ground
MTJ provides a compromise between the convenience of DRO and the broader flight options of ABQ. It's significantly closer to Durango than ABQ (approximately 2-2.5 hours drive), boasting a wider variety of flights than DRO, although not as expansive as ABQ. This option could be ideal for travelers who want more flight choices than DRO but prefer a shorter driving distance than ABQ.
Pros:
- Shorter Drive than ABQ: Reduces travel time compared to Albuquerque.
- More Flight Options than DRO: Offers more airline and route choices.
- Relatively Convenient: Easier access to rental cars.
Cons:
- Still Requires a Car Rental: Public transport to Durango is impractical.
- Flight Selection Less Than ABQ: May still have fewer options than a major hub like ABQ.
Denver International Airport (DIA): The Extensive Option
DIA, a major international airport, offers unparalleled flight options from across the globe, usually at the most competitive prices. However, this comes with the longest drive to Durango – around 6-7 hours. This option is best suited for those who are already flying into Denver for other reasons or can incorporate a scenic drive as part of their trip.
Pros:
- Vast Flight Options: A massive selection of airlines and routes worldwide.
- Lowest Airfares (Often): Highly competitive pricing due to the large number of airlines.
- Numerous Amenities: Extensive range of services and facilities.
Cons:
- Longest Drive to Durango: Significantly increases travel time.
- Rental Car Essential: No feasible public transportation alternative.
- Can Be Overwhelming: Navigating a large international airport can be stressful.
Which Airport is Right for You?
The ideal airport depends entirely on your priorities. Prioritize convenience and minimal travel time? Choose DRO. Seeking the broadest selection of flights and lower airfares? ABQ or DIA may be better options, despite the longer drive. MTJ provides a balance between the two. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each airport before making your decision to ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to your Durango adventure.
