Fees and Permits for Airport Shuttle Providers in Colorado
Operating an airport shuttle service in Colorado requires understanding a range of airport-specific permits, fees, and operational requirements. These regulations vary by airport and are essential for ensuring compliance, smooth operations, and proper invoicing for shuttle services. The major airports in Colorado—Denver International Airport (DEN), Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE), and Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE)—each have distinct registration processes, transponder use, and fee structures.
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International Airport (DEN) is the largest airport in Colorado and a major hub for travelers heading to Rocky Mountain resorts. As the primary gateway to the state, DEN serves numerous popular routes to ski destinations. The most frequented shuttle routes from DEN include airport shuttle transfers to Vail, Breckenridge, Aspen, and Steamboat Springs. These journeys typically range from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the destination and weather conditions. For shuttle operators, understanding DEN’s specific permit requirements, fee structures, and operational procedures is crucial due to the high volume of passengers and the airport’s extensive ground transportation system.
Permit and Registration Process
To operate a shuttle service at DEN, each vehicle must be registered through the airport’s ground transportation office. A $500 one-time registration fee per vehicle and a $50 deposit for the required AVI tag are mandatory.
Fee Structure
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| One-time registration | $500 per vehicle |
| AVI transponder deposit | $50 per vehicle |
| Per-trip fee | $3.13 per 15 minutes |
Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures
Taxis and limousines must pick up and drop off passengers at Jeppesen Terminal on Level 5, Island 2. The specific zones are:
- West side: Between gates 504 and 512
- East side: Between gates 505 and 513
Shuttle services and mountain carriers pick up and drop off at Jeppesen Terminal Level 5, Island 1. The specific zones are:
- West side: Between gates 504-506
- East side: Butside gates 511-513
Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE)
Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) is a popular entry point for visitors to Colorado’s central mountain resorts. Located near Vail, EGE primarily serves shuttle routes to nearby ski destinations such as Vail and Beaver Creek. These popular routes are typically short, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour. EGE also provides access to slightly further destinations like Aspen & Snowmass, with travel times of about 1.5 to 2 hours. For shuttle operators, EGE’s permit process and fee structure are designed to accommodate the seasonal fluctuations in demand, particularly during peak ski season.
Permit and Registration Process
Shuttle operators serving EGE must register each vehicle with the airport’s ground transportation office. EGE charges an annual permit fee of $100 per company, which must be renewed annually. Additionally, a $50 transponder fee is required for each vehicle.
Fee Structure
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual permit fee | $100 per company |
| Transponder fee | $50 per vehicle |
| Per-trip fee (1-7 seats) | $5.00 per trip |
| Per-trip fee (8+ seats) | $10.00 per trip |
EGE Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures
Pickups occur in the Ground Transportation Lot, which is accessible only to vehicles with active transponders. The Ground Transportation Lot has a 2-hour parking limit, and operators are charged an additional $2 for every 15 minutes over this limit.
- Pickups can only be completed inside the gated Ground Transportation Lot outside of Door 6 of the main terminal. Picking up curbside is prohibited and will be a finable offense.
- Drop-offs must be made via the eastern entrance to the front drive. They must be placed on the curb before and in front of Door 1.
- Picking up a passenger only: Vehicles must enter through the western entrance to the front drive and continue to the GT Pick-Up Lot. Parking is permitted only in designated spaces.
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE)
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is typically used to access Aspen and its surrounding ski resorts. Known for its challenging approach due to its location in the mountains, ASE primarily serves shuttle routes to Aspen, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk Mountain. These routes are typically very quick, with most destinations reachable within 15-20 minutes. The proximity to these world-class ski resorts makes ASE a busy hub for shuttle services during ski season. Shuttle operators must be well-versed in ASE’s specific operational requirements, including using the Ground Transportation Circle and the AVI transponder system, to manage the high volume of travelers during peak times efficiently.
Permit and Registration Process
The airport’s ground transportation office must register and approve each vehicle to operate shuttle services at ASE. A $50 annual permit fee per vehicle is charged for operating at ASE, and each vehicle must also have an AVI transponder, which costs $50 per transponder.
Fee Structure
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual permit fee | $50 per vehicle |
| AVI transponder fee | $50 per transponder |
| Per-trip fee (1-7 seats) | $2.50 per trip |
| Per-trip fee (8+ seats) | $5.00 per trip |
ASE Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures
Shuttle operators must use the designated Ground Transportation Circle for drop-offs and pick-ups. Vehicles cannot remain parked in the circle for more than 30 minutes.
AVI Transponder System and Invoicing
The Automatic Vehicle Identification (AVI) transponder system is crucial for shuttle services operating at Colorado’s major airports. This technology bridges the gap between airport management requirements and shuttle operators’ need for efficient access and accurate billing.
Each registered shuttle vehicle has an RFID-enabled AVI transponder, typically mounted on the windshield. This device serves multiple purposes that align with the permit and fee structures discussed earlier:
- It automates access to designated commercial pick-up and drop-off areas, streamlining operations at Denver International, Eagle County Regional, and Aspen/Pitkin County airports.
- The system accurately tracks each vehicle’s entries and exits, enabling precise trip counting for the per-trip fees outlined in each airport’s fee structure.
- It facilitates transparent monthly invoicing based on actual usage, reflecting the specific fee rates of each airport.
By utilizing the AVI system effectively, shuttle operators can ensure compliance with airport regulations, maintain accurate financial records, and provide efficient service to passengers at all three major Colorado airports. This technology complements the registration processes and operational requirements detailed in the airport-specific sections, forming a comprehensive framework for shuttle services in the state.
Staying Informed about Airport Fees, Permits, and Operational Requirements
Existing shuttle operators or those considering starting an airport shuttle service for Colorado’s major airports need to stay informed about the latest fees, permits, and operational requirements. It’s crucial to maintain compliance and ensure smooth operations. Airport regulations are dynamic and subject to change, so it’s essential for operators to regularly check official airport websites and keep open lines of communication with airport ground transportation offices.
Contact Information and Resources
Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Website: https://www.flydenver.com/business-and-community/procurement/ground-transportation
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +1 (303) 342-4060
Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE)
- Website: https://flyege.com/parking-transportation/ground-transportation/
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +1 (970) 328-2680
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE)
