Key Takeaways
• Starting June 26, 2025, Contour Airlines launches nonstop flights between Taos Regional Airport and Denver International Airport.
• Flights operate thrice weekly, last about 1 hour 25 minutes, using Embraer regional jets.
• New terminal opens October 2025, expanding airport capacity and improving traveler experience.
On June 26, 2025, a new chapter begins for air travel in northern New Mexico. Direct, nonstop flights between Taos Regional Airport and Denver International Airport will launch, operated by Contour Airlines. This is the first time Taos will have scheduled commercial nonstop service to a major U.S. hub. The move promises to make travel easier for residents, boost tourism, and connect the region to the world. Here’s what travelers, local businesses, and the wider community need to know about this major development.
Who, What, When, Where, and Why
Who: Contour Airlines, in partnership with the Town of Taos and Taos Regional Airport
What: Launch of direct, nonstop flights between Taos Regional Airport (SKX) and Denver International Airport (DEN)
When: Service begins June 26, 2025, with flights running three times a week
Where: Taos Regional Airport, El Prado, New Mexico, and Denver International Airport, Denver, Colorado
Why: To provide northern New Mexico with direct access to a major hub, supporting travel, business, and economic growth
The Details: What’s Changing for Taos and Denver
For the first time, Taos Regional Airport will offer scheduled, nonstop commercial flights to a major U.S. airport. Contour Airlines will operate these flights using Embraer regional jets, which are known for their comfort and reliability. The flights will run three times a week—on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays—making it easier for people to plan trips for business, leisure, or family visits.
Flight Schedule and Booking:
– Start Date: June 26, 2025
– Frequency: Three times per week (Monday, Thursday, Sunday)
– Flight Duration: About 1 hour and 25 minutes
– Distance: 240 miles (386 kilometers) between Taos and Denver
– Booking: Tickets are available through Contour Airlines and the Taos tourism website
After September 29, 2025, the flights will continue on the same schedule through December 15, 2025. Passengers will use the current terminal until a brand-new facility opens in October 2025.
Why This Matters: The Impact on Residents, Visitors, and Businesses
Direct flights from Taos Regional Airport to Denver International Airport are more than just a new travel option—they represent a major step forward for the region. Here’s why this matters:
For Residents
- Easier Travel: No more long drives to distant airports. Residents can now fly directly to Denver, saving time and hassle.
- Affordable Options: The new service aims to keep fares reasonable, making air travel more accessible for families and individuals.
- Medical and Personal Needs: Quick access to Denver means easier trips for medical appointments, family visits, and emergencies.
For Tourists
- Direct Access to Taos: Visitors can now reach Taos without complicated connections or long drives. This is especially important for those coming to enjoy Taos’s art, culture, and outdoor activities.
- More Choices: With three flights a week, tourists have flexibility in planning their trips.
For the Business Community
- Improved Connectivity: Businesses in Taos can now connect more easily with partners, clients, and suppliers across the country and around the world.
- Attracting Investment: Better air service makes Taos more attractive to investors and companies looking to expand.
For Airport Operators
- Operational Growth: The new flights and upcoming terminal expansion will help the airport handle more passengers and flights.
- Sustainable Development: Airport leaders are focused on growing in a way that benefits both residents and visitors, while protecting the region’s unique character.
How the Flights Work: Step-by-Step Guide for Travelers
If you’re planning to use the new service, here’s what you need to know:
- Booking Your Flight:
- Go to the Contour Airlines website or the Taos tourism site to check schedules and book tickets.
- Choosing Your Travel Day:
- Direct flights are available on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
- Checking In:
- Use the current terminal at Taos Regional Airport until the new one opens in October 2025.
- Connecting in Denver:
- Once you arrive at Denver International Airport, you can connect to 189 domestic and 33 international destinations. This makes it easy to reach almost anywhere in the United States 🇺🇸 or abroad.
- Returning to Taos:
- Book your return flight on one of the three weekly departures from Denver.
What the Experts Say: Perspectives from Key Stakeholders
Contour Airlines:
Ben Munson, President of Contour Airlines, explained that connecting Denver with regional markets like Taos is a top priority. He highlighted that Denver International Airport’s global connections, along with partnerships with Alaska, American, and United Airlines, will give Taos travelers access to destinations worldwide.
Denver International Airport:
Phil Washington, CEO of Denver International Airport, called the new route a “win-win” for both cities. He said it supports DEN’s goal to serve 100 million passengers and strengthens its position as a major U.S. hub.
Town of Taos:
Mayor Pascual Maestas said the new flights will make travel easier for Taos families and create affordable options for both residents and visitors. He sees the service as a way to support the community and local economy.
Taos Regional Airport:
Airport Manager Colton Rapstine described the vision of turning the airport into a sustainable transportation hub for northern New Mexico. He believes the new flights and terminal will help achieve this goal.
The Bigger Picture: Economic and Social Benefits
Boosting Tourism:
Taos is famous for its art, culture, and outdoor activities. Direct flights make it easier for tourists to visit, which is expected to increase hotel bookings, restaurant visits, and spending at local shops.
Supporting Local Businesses:
Easier access to Denver means local businesses can reach new markets, attend trade shows, and bring in clients more easily. This can lead to more jobs and economic growth.
Connecting to the World:
With nearly 200 domestic and 33 international connections at Denver International Airport, Taos is now linked to the world. This opens up new opportunities for students, workers, and families.
Improving Infrastructure:
The new 7,500 square foot terminal at Taos Regional Airport, set to open in October 2025, will make travel smoother and more comfortable. The terminal is being built with $5.4 million from the State of New Mexico and $1.5 million from the New Mexico Department of Transportation Aviation Division.
Historical Context: How We Got Here
Past Air Service:
Taos Regional Airport has offered seasonal and charter flights in the past, but never scheduled nonstop commercial service to a major hub. This new route is a first for the region.
Terminal Expansion:
The airport’s terminal is being expanded more than fivefold to handle more passengers and flights. This is a major investment in the region’s future.
Funding and Support:
The terminal project is funded by state and local sources, showing strong support for improving transportation in northern New Mexico.
What’s Next: Looking to the Future
Terminal Completion:
The new terminal is expected to open in October 2025. It will offer more space, better amenities, and improved efficiency for travelers.
Potential for More Routes:
If the Denver service is successful, there may be more direct flights added in the future. This could include other major cities or even more frequent service.
Sustainable Growth:
Airport leaders are committed to growing in a way that benefits everyone—residents, visitors, and the environment.
Multiple Perspectives: What Different Groups Stand to Gain
Residents:
– Save time and money on travel
– Easier access to medical care, education, and family in other cities
– More choices for vacations and business trips
Tourists:
– Direct flights make it easier to visit Taos
– More flexibility in planning trips
– Access to Taos’s unique culture and outdoor activities
Business Community:
– Better connections to clients and partners
– Easier to attract new investment
– More opportunities for growth
Airport Operators:
– Ability to handle more passengers
– Improved facilities and services
– Stronger position as a regional transportation hub
Practical Guidance: How to Make the Most of the New Service
- Book Early: With only three flights a week, seats may fill up quickly, especially during busy travel seasons.
- Check Connection Options: If you’re traveling beyond Denver, look at the many domestic and international flights available from DEN.
- Stay Updated: The new terminal will open in October 2025. Until then, use the current terminal for check-in and boarding.
- Plan for Growth: As the airport expands, expect more services and possibly new routes in the future.
Official Resources and Further Information
For the latest updates, schedules, and booking information, visit:
– Taos Regional Airport
– Contour Airlines
– Denver International Airport
For official information on U.S. air travel regulations, visit the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Analysis and Broader Implications
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the launch of direct flights between Taos Regional Airport and Denver International Airport is a milestone for northern New Mexico. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about opening doors for the entire region. The new service will help families stay connected, make it easier for tourists to visit, and support local businesses. The airport’s expansion shows a commitment to long-term growth and improved service.
The partnership between Contour Airlines, the Town of Taos, and state agencies demonstrates how local and regional cooperation can bring real benefits to communities. By linking Taos to a major hub like Denver, the region is now part of a much larger network, with access to nearly 200 domestic and 33 international destinations.
Conclusion: A New Era for Taos and Northern New Mexico
The start of direct, nonstop flights between Taos Regional Airport and Denver International Airport marks a turning point for the region. With Contour Airlines providing reliable service, residents and visitors have more options than ever before. The airport’s new terminal, set to open in October 2025, will make travel even easier and more comfortable.
This new service is expected to bring lasting benefits—supporting tourism, helping local businesses grow, and connecting Taos to the world. As the region looks to the future, the partnership between the airport, airlines, and local government will be key to making sure growth is sustainable and benefits everyone.
Action Steps for Readers:
– Visit the official Taos tourism website or Contour Airlines to book your flight.
– Check for updates on the new terminal and expanded services.
– Explore the many destinations now within reach thanks to this new connection.
With these changes, Taos is set to become a key gateway in the Southwest, offering new opportunities for travel, business, and community growth.
Learn Today
Contour Airlines → Regional airline operating direct nonstop flights between Taos and Denver starting June 2025.
Embraer Regional Jets → Comfortable, reliable aircraft used by Contour Airlines for short-haul flights.
Nonstop Flights → Flights traveling directly between two airports without intermediate stops.
Terminal Expansion → Increase in airport building size to handle more passengers and improve facilities.
Denver International Airport → A major U.S. hub airport offering extensive domestic and international connections.
This Article in a Nutshell
Taos Regional Airport inaugurates nonstop flights to Denver, linking northern New Mexico to a major U.S. hub. Contour Airlines operates thrice-weekly 1.4-hour flights, boosting travel, tourism, and business. The new terminal opening in October 2025 enhances services, marking a major milestone in regional connectivity and growth.
— By VisaVerge.com
