ASPEN, Colo. — The runway at the Pitkin County Airport was closed Wednesday after it was damaged by a sign that caught fire late Tuesday. According to the airport , the runway was damaged during routine maintenance when a lighted "X" sign indicating the runway was "unavailable" caught fire.
That fire caused "significant" damage to the runway pavement at the departure end. A section of about 20 feet by 20 feet was damaged. Credit: Aspen Airport A photo of the fire damage to a runway at the airport in Pitkin County.
The closure could last for several days depending on the availability of materials and the time required for the asphalt to cure, the airport said. They plan to monitor the runway throughout the day to ensure safety and assess the extent of the damage. RELATED: Colorado mountain highways reopen for the summer season Currently, the airport is expected to reopen Friday morning, but travelers are encouraged to contact their carrier directly for more information regarding their flight schedules.
American, United, Delta and SkyWest operate scheduled flights to and from the airport. The airport said they're working with the FAA, airline partners and other tenants to manage the situation. Credit: Aspen Airport A photo of the lighted sign that caught fire and damaged a runway at the airport in Pitkin County.
Additional updates are expected to be posted on social media , the airport said. RELATED: Lawmakers negotiate $105 billion bill aimed at boosting air travel safety SU.
