The number of passengers flying out of Western Colorado has continued to increase in 2026 as flight options become more affordable and nonstop service expands at places like Montrose Regional Airport.

If you're still driving to Denver to catch a flight, it’s time to see what Montrose has to offer. New in 2026, MTJ offers nonstop service to Los Angeles and stronger connections to Chicago and Dallas. Keep scrolling to check out which major airlines fly out of Montrose, and to see what’s new in time for the peak summer travel season.

LOOK: Major Airlines at Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ)

At Montrose Regional Airport, five airlines form the backbone of commercial air service. Together, they provide the core connectivity for the region, with flight schedules that expand and contract throughout the year—ramping up during the busy summer tourism season and again in winter as ski travel to the San Juan Mountains peaks.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

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What’s New in 2026 — And Why L.A. Changes Everything

A Closer Look at Colorado’s 10 Largest Commercial Service Airports
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The buzz on the Western Slope right now is about the standout addition of nonstop service to Los Angeles, launching seasonally and connecting Montrose to one of the world’s busiest global hubs. This means Coloradans now have access to California, as well as the international destinations via LAX. Meanwhile, expanded summer service continues to boost overall capacity and flexibility.

More Big-City Flights Bring Bigger Economic Impact

Colorado is flying to Chicago, Dallas, and Houston more than ever in 2026. This helps tourists and business travelers gain access to the Western Slope as those flights return to Colorado. More frequent flights mean more visitors spending money at hotels, restaurants, and at outdoor destinations on the Western Slope. The growth of tourism-driven air service has been one of the major economic drivers for Western Colorado in the last five years or so.

How Many Destinations—and What It Means for You

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Read More: How Townsend Avenue Shapes Life In Montrose, Colorado

While the internet often says Montrose offers more than 10 nonstop destinations, depending on the season, it’s actually more like 7 (including Denver). The airport offers 35+ weekly flights during peak travel. For Western Slope residents, this means fewer layovers, lower fares, and less reliance on Denver International Airport. Simply put, getting anywhere is getting easier on the Western Slope.

  • In 2026, nonstop service from Montrose will be offered to the following destinations:
  • Denver (DEN) – Daily, multiple flights
  • Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW) – Daily service
  • Los Angeles (LAX) – ~May 23 to Sept 19 (weekly service)
  • Chicago O’Hare (ORD) – ~May 21 to Sept 21 (multiple weekly flights)
  • Houston (IAH) – ~May 21 to Sept 23 (several weekly flights)
  • Dallas Love Field (DAL) – ~June 6 to Aug 1 (weekly)
  • Atlanta (ATL) – Seasonal (typically winter ski season)
  • Newark (EWR) – Seasonal (winter focus)

KEEP GOING: 17 Items Banned from Checked Bags at Denver’s Airport

You may be familiar with items you are not allowed to pack in your carry-on bag, but how long has it been since you looked at the list of items banned from checked baggage? Keep reading to check out seventeen reminders about items you should not place in your suitcase before heading to Denver International Airport.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

MORE: Colorado’s 10 Largest Commercial Service Airports Ranked

Find out which of Colorado's commercial airports ranks behind Denver International for boarding the most commercial passengers during one calendar year.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

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