Colorado Air and Space Port: An Economic Powerhouse Driving Innovation and Growth in Adams County and Beyond

Not only is Colorado Air and Space Port (CASP) classified as a National General Aviation Reliever Airport with over 500 based aircraft and 126,000 operations in 2024, it's also an FAA-licensed Horizontal Launch Spaceport and is delivering real economic results.

According to the latest Colorado Aviation Economic Impact Study, CASP generated a staggering $213 million in total business revenues in 2023, supporting over 1,000 jobs and contributing $130.4 million in value to the state’s economy. 

In addition to its traditional aviation activities, CASP wants to position itself as a national leader in suborbital flight, aerospace research, and commercial space transportation. Located in Adams County, this cutting-edge facility continues to fuel the region’s growth, offering opportunities for businesses and innovators alike. 

“CASP isn’t just making an impact, it’s shaping the future of our county and state in real time,” said Commissioner Lynn Baca, Chair of the Adams County Board of Commissioners. “It’s fueling growth, sparking innovation, and pushing the boundaries of suborbital space research and development. But beyond that, CASP is building a strong economic future for Adams County. The progress we’re seeing today means more stability for families and new opportunities for our young people to explore careers in aerospace and aviation, creating lasting benefits that go far beyond the numbers.” 

An Economic Engine 
The Economic Impact Study, conducted by the Colorado Department of Transportation’s Division of Aeronautics, highlights CASP’s expanding role in the aviation and aerospace sectors. Of the total $213 million impact, $187.1 million stems from on-airport activities, including aerospace manufacturing, flight training, aircraft maintenance, and corporate travel. Visitor spending added another $25.9 million, further demonstrating CASP’s influence on local businesses and tourism.

“This report really highlights the influence that the Colorado Air and Space Port has on the regional economy,” said Jeff Kloska, Director of CASP. “It’s not just about giving planes another place to take off—airports act as economic engines and draw business to them. CASP is more than just a general aviation airport, its an access point to the region from both national and international locations which is important for business operators.

“With the spaceport side of our operation, we’re continuing to grow CASP as a destination for aerospace within the Adams County’s economy. As we keep pushing the limits of commercial space and aviation, our county is cementing its role as a leader in this fast-growing industry.” 

Expanding Economic Opportunity in Adams County and Beyond   
With space exploration and commercial aviation on the rise, CASP is poised for continued growth. As a key player in Colorado’s $68.9 billion aviation economy, the air and spaceport is helping shape the future of air and space travel while strengthening the state and county’s positions as a hub for aerospace excellence.  

CASP is not only a hub for aerospace but also a vital part of Adams County’s thriving transportation and logistics sector. The county already serves as a regional nexus, with four major interstates (I-25, I-70, I-76, and I-270), Colorado’s busiest toll road (E-470), extensive state highways, and major rail and public transit connections. CASP further strengthens this network, providing the closest general aviation and Reliever Airport to Denver International Airport (DEN), the third-busiest airport in the country.  

"Adams County is rich with growth opportunities for both residents and businesses, and this report makes it clear—CASP is a powerhouse of innovation driving our region forward," said Jenni Hall, Director of Community and Economic Development at Adams County. "And we’re excited to see our efforts to build a strong foundation take off—as the aviation and aerospace sectors continue to expand, we’ll see even more high-tech jobs, cutting-edge businesses, and lasting economic benefits that will ripple across industries for years to come." 

For more information about CASP, please visit our website. Read the Economic Impact Study summary.