Los Angeles to Aspen is one of the classic ski and mountain routes out of Southern California.
The flight from Van Nuys covers approximately 630 to 650 nautical miles and usually takes about two to two and a half hours.
Travelers pick private charter flights for the sake of schedule flexibility, flying from a less busy Los Angeles area airport and arriving directly at Aspen/Pitkin County Airport.
Frequent fliers who travel to/from LA or Aspen, often on the the same route, prefer a Jet Card to lock in their hourly rates.
The high season is winter ski season, but flights are also arranged for summer mountain destinations. A private aviation advisor sources aircraft from operators in our network that meet Aspen's specific operating limits.
Route at a Glance
Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Flight time | about 2 to 2.5 hours nonstop (varies with aircraft and winds) |
| Distance | roughly 630 to 650 nautical miles |
| Typical jet types | Mid-Size Jet or Super-Mid Jet (Light Jet also common); aircraft must meet ASE wingspan and weight limits |
| Time saved vs commercial | Avoids LAX commercial terminals and connections; private FBOs at both ends keep door-to-door time short |
Airports on Both Ends
Departure (Los Angeles): Departure (L.A. Area): Van Nuys Airport (VNY) is the usual choice, with dedicated FBOs, no airline traffic, and good access to the Westside and the Valley. Burbank (BUR) is the common alternative.
Arrival (Aspen): Arrival (Aspen): Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is a high-altitude mountain airport with specific size limits: a maximum wingspan of 95 feet and a maximum landing weight of around 100,000 pounds.
Some large-cabin aircraft, such as the Gulfstream G650 and Global 7500, exceed the wingspan limit and cannot use ASE. Mid-Size, Super-Mid, and many Heavy Jets fit within the restrictions.
Your advisor will confirm which aircraft are eligible. Eagle County (EGE) or Rifle (RIL) are the alternates when a larger aircraft is needed or weather closes ASE.
When to Fly
Winter ski season, December through March, is the high-demand window, with the holiday and school break weeks busiest of all.
Summer brings a second, lighter season and more scheduling flexibility. Weekday flights are easier to arrange than Fridays and Sundays.
Booking early during peak ski weeks secures the widest choice of aircraft.
What Drives Cost
Cost is determined by aircraft type, total flight time, repositioning to Van Nuys, and peak ski-season demand. Winter and holiday dates raise availability pressure and pricing.
High-elevation performance and special operating requirements at ASE can also influence which aircraft are available and at what rate.
We do not publish hard prices; every itinerary is quoted individually so the numbers reflect the actual aircraft, dates, and routing, including Federal Excise Tax.
How Much Does a Private Jet Charter Cost?
We’re committed to providing the best experience possible. While we continue to improve our tools, our team is here to provide personalized quotes and itinerary planning. Soon, you’ll be able to explore pricing with ease through our new interactive tool in development.
Why Fly Private on This Route
The payoff is schedule control and a direct flight into Aspen, with no commercial connection and no long drive from a more distant airport. You depart from a private facility at Van Nuys and fly straight to ASE on your own schedule.
For groups traveling with ski equipment, a Mid-Size or Super-Mid Jet that fits ASE’s limits offers space a commercial itinerary cannot. A private aviation advisor sources aircraft compatible with the airport.
Ready to Fly?