Get ready to soar through the skies of New Mexico! A new seasonal air service is set to take off between Angel Fire, nestled in the scenic Moreno Valley, and Albuquerque, the state’s vibrant hub. This long-awaited connection, a joint effort by the Village of Angel Fire, Colfax County, Angel Fire Resort, and Advanced Air, will launch in December 2024, offering a more convenient way to travel for both residents and visitors.
The new flight route, strategically timed to coincide with Angel Fire’s busiest tourism periods, promises to revolutionize travel in northern New Mexico. From December through March, skiers and winter enthusiasts will have a direct route to the slopes, while summer months, from June to September, will see visitors flock to the region’s natural beauty for hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures. Advanced Air will operate these flights using a nine-passenger King Air 350 turboprop aircraft, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey for all passengers.
The new air service is poised to be a game-changer for the region. Colfax County and Angel Fire Resort leaders have long championed the idea of bringing commercial air service to the area, recognizing its potential to boost tourism and improve local travel options. Mayor BJ Lindsey of Angel Fire is particularly excited about the influx of tourists during peak seasons, which will support local businesses, resorts, and recreational facilities.
But the benefits extend beyond tourism. Residents of Angel Fire and surrounding areas will have direct access to Albuquerque International Sunport, connecting them to a wider network of flights across the country. This enhanced connectivity will not only make it easier for residents to travel for work, healthcare, or personal reasons, but it could also attract new businesses and investors to the region, further boosting the local economy.
The new service is designed to be accessible to everyone. Affordable one-way tickets, priced around $79, will make it a convenient and cost-effective choice for travelers. To further enhance the travel experience, the Village of Angel Fire is working with Enterprise Rental Car to offer on-site car rental services, while plans are underway to create more long-term parking options and introduce a restaurant vendor at the airport. These developments are crucial for improving the overall passenger experience and ensuring the long-term success of the new air service.
The new air service wouldn’t have been possible without a $1.4 million Rural Air Service Enhancement grant from the New Mexico Aviation Department. This funding will play a vital role in ensuring the service’s sustainability moving forward. Additionally, the Colfax County Commission has taken steps to explore the transfer of operational control of Angel Fire Airport to the Village of Angel Fire. This transition will streamline airport management and enable the airport to better meet the needs of its growing passenger base.
The launch of this new air service signifies a significant step forward for northern New Mexico. It’s not just about making travel easier; it’s about connecting people to the region’s stunning natural beauty, supporting local businesses, and creating opportunities for growth and prosperity. As the new route cuts down travel time and offers affordable flights, the area is expected to see a significant uptick in visitor numbers, potentially leading to further developments in the local tourism infrastructure. This new air service is poised to transform the travel landscape of northern New Mexico, making it an even more appealing destination for both tourists and residents alike.
