The Garfield County Board of County Commissioners has granted development plan approval for a major project by Vantage Aviation at Rifle Airport in Colorado, including a state-of-the-art fixed base operator with a 40,000 square-foot hangar and an additional 25,000 square-foot hangar with an attached Class A lobby, aimed at providing premium aviation services.

“This transformative project marks an exciting chapter for Rifle Garfield County Airport,” says Ryan Maxfield, CEO of Vantage Aviation. “The Garfield County Board of County Commissioners has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. By expanding apron capacity, doubling fuel storage and adding heated hangars and a new deicing pad, we're equipping RIL to handle today's demands and tomorrow's growth. This initiative represents the largest private investment in the airport's history, setting the stage for a new era of aviation excellence. We are thrilled to break ground next summer.”

The project will also bring critical infrastructure improvements, including:

- Increasing aircraft apron and parking areas by nearly 25%.

- Doubling fuel storage capacity on the airfield.

- Adding a new deicing pad near runway 26.

- Constructing significant heated aircraft storage facilities.

“Securing approval for this development plan marks a pivotal moment for Rifle Airport,” adds Barry Sherman, COO of Business Aviation Group. “This project will not only elevate the airport's operational capabilities but also position RIL as a premier aviation destination, boosting both the local economy and the aviation community.”

Construction is scheduled to begin in early summer 2025, with completion targeted for late 2026. Leasing opportunities for hangar space will become available by mid-2025.