Email threats close Aspen Airport Tuesday, prompting evacuations
The airport has since reopened
Austin Colbert/The Aspen Times
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport closed Tuesday afternoon in response to multiple email threats regarding airport property. More than 95 people were evacuated from the premises as part of the response.
The airport officially reopened around 4 p.m., according to a PitkinAlert, after law enforcement conducted a systematic check of the interior and exterior of the airport.
“Safety is our number one priority, and throughout this incident our focus was on allowing law enforcement and emergency personnel the space they needed to safely respond,” Incident Commander Pitkin County Sheriff Justin Thompson said in a press release. “We appreciate the patience and cooperation of travelers and our community while the response is underway.”
The press release issued Tuesday evening states that airport personnel were assisted by Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office, Aspen Police Department, Aspen Ambulance District, Aspen Airport Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting and Snowmass Village Police Department in evacuating travelers and staff away from the premises.
Fifty-five passengers and 40 airline employees were evacuated, along with TSA personnel, rental car employees, Jedediah’s employees and Aspen Chamber Resort Association staff.
Upvalley and downvalley traffic remained open on Colorado Highway 82 throughout the response.
“Today’s response demonstrates the strong coordination among our local law enforcement agencies, first responders and airport partners,” Pitkin County Sheriff Michael Buglione said in the release. “Our teams train and prepare to work together during situations like this, and that coordination allows us to respond effectively while keeping the safety of our community, airport personnel and the traveling public at the forefront.”
Airport staff are advising travelers to stay in direct contact with their individual airlines for the most current flight information, including potential delays or schedule changes resulting from the temporary closure.
The latest information and official updates on the Pitkin County and the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport can be found through PitkinAlert, social media and official county and airport websites.
Original reporting from aspentimes.com
Email threats close Aspen Airport Tuesday, prompting evacuations
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport closed Tuesday afternoon in response to multiple email threats regarding airport property. More than 95 people were evacuated from the premises as part of the response.
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