Ultimate Colorado Springs Airport (COS) Guide

6 minute read

Ultimate Colorado Springs Airport (COS) Guide

Welcome to Colorado Springs Airport (COS) – Your Gateway to the Rockies


Located about 6 miles (10 kilometers) southeast of downtown Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs Airport (COS)serves as the primary aviation hub for southern Colorado. Known for its convenient size, stunning mountain views, and welcoming atmosphere, COS offers quick access to the Pikes Peak region, outdoor adventures, and a growing business community. This airport guide provides everything you need to navigate Colorado Springs Airport—from terminal layouts and parking, to ground transportation, dining, shopping, and expert travel tips. Bookmark this page on airport.co to stay informed, and ensure a smooth journey in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

1. Quick Facts & Overview

  1. Airport Code: COS
  2. Location: Approximately 6 miles (10 km) southeast of downtown Colorado Springs, near Powers Boulevard and Milton E. Proby Parkway
  3. Passenger Volume: Over 1 million travelers annually (pre-pandemic data)
  4. Terminals: One main passenger terminal with three concourses (though currently only two in regular use)
  5. Primary Airlines: American, Delta, Southwest, United, plus occasional charter or seasonal services
  6. Key Routes: Domestic flights to major U.S. cities (Dallas, Denver, Phoenix, Las Vegas), connecting travelers to international gateways

Serving as a convenient alternative to Denver International Airport, Colorado Springs Airport offers shorter lines, easy parking, and scenic approaches framed by Pikes Peak and the Front Range. Whether you’re heading to the area for business, outdoor recreation, or local military installations, COS provides a friendly and efficient travel experience.

2. Terminal Layout & Facilities

2.1 Main Terminal

  • Check-In & Departures

    • Located on Level 2. Digital boards display airline counters, typically arranged by carrier.
    • Arrive 1–2 hours before domestic flights (2–3 hours if traveling during peak holidays or large local events).
    • Self-service kiosks for boarding pass printing—be mindful of airline baggage drop deadlines.

  • Security Screening

    • Central TSA checkpoint leading to the concourse gate areas.
    • TSA PreCheck available for eligible flyers—expect moderate wait times in early mornings or late afternoons.

2.2 Concourse Gate Areas

  • Concourse(s)

    • The terminal design includes multiple concourses, though only two might be in active use.
    • Each concourse features comfortable seating, charging outlets, restrooms, and flight info screens.

  • Amenities

    • Limited dining/retail outlets near gates: coffee shops, grab-and-go snack bars, local-themed souvenir stands.
    • Some gates have children’s play areas or quiet zones—confirm with airport staff for exact locations.

2.3 Additional Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi
    • “flyCOS Free WiFi”—accept terms to browse or stream.
  • ATMs & Currency Exchange
    • ATMs near baggage claim/ticketing; currency exchange not typically offered—plan ahead if traveling abroad.
  • Information Desk
    • Airport volunteers or staff can answer questions about flights, lost & found, or local attractions.

(Airport expansion or renovation plans may evolve—always consult official COS announcements for updated gate usage and terminal improvements.)

3. Ground Transportation

3.1 Taxis & Ride-Hailing

  • Taxi Rank
    • Located curbside on the lower level (Arrivals). Fares to downtown average $25–$35 (~15–20 minutes), traffic dependent.
  • Ride-Share Services
    • Uber, Lyft operate at Colorado Springs Airport—follow “Rideshare Pickup” signage for designated zones.

3.2 Public Buses & Shuttles

  • Mountain Metro Transit (Bus)
    • Route 37 connects COS to downtown Colorado Springs (~$1.75 fare). Check schedules for frequency—often limited evenings/weekends.
  • Hotel & Private Shuttles
    • Many local hotels near Powers Boulevard or Academy Boulevard offer courtesy vans—call ahead to confirm.
    • Private shuttle services or charters can be arranged for group travel or corporate events.

3.3 Car Rentals

  • Rental Car Center
    • Located near the baggage claim area. Brands include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty.
  • Driving Tips
    • Quick access to Powers Boulevard, Highway 24, or I-25 for trips to downtown, the Air Force Academy, or mountain destinations like Woodland Park and Manitou Springs.

4. Parking at Colorado Springs Airport

  1. Short-Term Parking

    • Steps from the terminal—best for quick pickups/drop-offs or short stays.
    • Hourly rates apply—convenient but costlier for multi-day trips.

  2. Long-Term Parking

    • More economical daily/weekly rates.
    • A short walk or free shuttle ride to/from the terminal.

  3. Economy Lot

    • The most budget-friendly option, slightly farther.
    • Courtesy shuttle typically runs every 10–15 minutes, allow extra time.

  4. Cell Phone Waiting Lot

    • Free zone for drivers awaiting arriving passengers—proceed to arrivals curb once travelers are ready.

(Check flycos.com for real-time parking status, promotions, or reservation capabilities.)

5. Lounges & Priority Services

5.1 Airline Lounges

  • No Major Airline Lounges
    • As of now, COS does not feature dedicated airline clubs (e.g., American Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club).
    • Frequent flyers may access lounge facilities at larger connecting hubs.

5.2 TSA PreCheck & CLEAR

  • TSA PreCheck
    • Expedited security for approved travelers—keep your Known Traveler Number updated with airlines.
  • CLEAR
    • Not currently available at COS; check expansions in the future.

6. Dining & Shopping

6.1 Food & Beverage

  • Local Flavors
    • Enjoy Colorado-inspired menus with farm-fresh ingredients or craft brews in some concourse eateries.
  • National Chains
    • Starbucks, Quiznos, or a fast-food spot for quick bites if you’re short on time.
  • Bars & Lounges
    • Some gate areas feature bar service—relax with local microbrews or wines before boarding.

6.2 Retail & Souvenir Shops

  • Newsstands & Convenience
    • Hudson, CNBC, or small gift kiosks for reading materials, snacks, electronics, or souvenirs.
  • Colorado-Themed Merchandise
    • Think “Pikes Peak” T-shirts, local craft foods, “Garden of the Gods” postcards—perfect for last-minute gifts.
  • Duty-Free
    • Minimal or none, as COS focuses on domestic routes—international travelers often connect at major hubs.

7. Nearby Accommodations

  1. Hilton Garden Inn Colorado Springs Airport
    • ~1 mile from the airport—shuttle availability, on-site restaurant, business facilities.
  2. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Colorado Springs Airport
    • Mid-range lodging, free breakfast, shuttle service, fitness center.
  3. SpringHill Suites by Marriott
    • Contemporary suites, complimentary shuttle, close to Powers Boulevard dining/shopping.

(Many hotels offer courtesy shuttles—confirm schedules with the front desk or reservations.)

8. Key Attractions Near COS

  1. Downtown Colorado Springs (~10 mins away)
    • Visit Pioneers Museum, Tejon Street’s shopping/dining, or catch events at the Colorado Springs Philharmonic.
  2. Garden of the Gods (~20 mins west)
    • Iconic red rock formations—ideal for hiking, rock climbing, scenic drives, or guided tours.
  3. Pikes Peak (~1 hour drive)
    • The famous 14,115-foot summit, accessible via scenic highway or the Pikes Peak Cog Railway (Manitou Springs).
  4. U.S. Air Force Academy (~25 mins north)
    • Explore the stunning Cadet Chapel (under renovation), visitor center, and scenic walking areas.

9. Travel Tips for Colorado Springs Airport

  1. Arrive Early
    • 1.5 hours for domestic flights, especially if checking bags or traveling at peak times (morning/evening).
  2. Check Baggage Restrictions
    • Some low-cost carriers have strict overhead bin policies—verify or risk additional fees.
  3. Altitude Awareness
    • Colorado’s higher elevation can affect visitors—stay hydrated, especially if touring mountainous areas.
  4. Online Check-In
    • Airlines often encourage mobile or e-boarding passes; reduce lines at counters.
  5. Weather Variability
    • Quick shifts from sunny to stormy—monitor flight status via airline apps, especially in winter months.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How far is Colorado Springs Airport from downtown Colorado Springs?
A: Approximately 6 miles—around a 10–15 minute drive, depending on traffic.

Q2: Does COS have free Wi-Fi?
A: Yes—connect to “flyCOS Free WiFi,” open your browser, and accept the usage terms.

Q3: Which airlines operate at Colorado Springs Airport?
A: American, Delta, Southwest, United, Frontier, Allegiant, plus smaller regional carriers or seasonal flights.

Q4: Are there any direct international routes from COS?
A: Primarily domestic routes; travelers typically connect through larger hubs for international flights.

Q5: Can I store luggage at COS?
A: No official lockers or left-luggage facilities—consult your airline for short-term baggage solutions, if needed.

Conclusion

Colorado Springs Airport (COS) combines the charm of Colorado’s Rocky Mountain region with a streamlined, modern passenger experience. From its compact terminal design and ample parking options to a variety of dining/shopping choices and quick ground transport to downtown or Pikes Peak, COS ensures travelers can enjoy a relaxed, efficient trip. Keep this airport guide on airport.co handy for up-to-date info on airline routes, lounge expansions, shuttle services, and more—helping you make the most of your time at Colorado Springs Airport and beyond.

Tagged:

Colorado Springs Airport (COS)
Previous Next

Search All Airport Guides

View all

  • Book Car Rentals

  • Check Flights Arrivals and Departures

  • Book flights

  • Book Airport Hotels