Colorado Springs (Fort Carson/Butts AAF)

Butts Army Airfield (Fort Carson) is not your typical passenger hub, but a vital strategic facility located at the very foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains. Unlike bustling civilian terminals, an atmosphere of strict discipline and professionalism prevails here, characteristic of one of the key US military bases. The runway of this airfield serves as a gateway for army aviation, providing support to legendary units in the picturesque yet harsh conditions of the Colorado highlands.

For aviation enthusiasts and travellers finding themselves in this region, Butts Army Airfield is interesting due to its unique location and history. Situated in immediate proximity to the famous Cheyenne Mountain, it often becomes the backdrop for spectacular training flights of Chinook and Apache helicopters, which can be observed from a distance. Although the facility is closed to ordinary tourists, its presence adds a special character to the landscape of Colorado Springs, serving as a reminder of the power and technology of modern aviation.

Airport Features and Status:

It is important to understand that Butts Army Airfield is an active military facility serving the Fort Carson base (home of the 4th Infantry Division). It does not accept commercial flights and is closed to civil aviation without special Prior Permission Required (PPR). Travellers planning a visit to Colorado Springs should use the city's civilian airport (code COS), located nearby.

A key feature of the airfield is its high-altitude location (about 1,800 metres above sea level). This makes it an ideal platform for training pilots in conditions of thin air and mountainous terrain. The long runway and modern navigation equipment allow for the reception of heavy transport aircraft delivering cargo and personnel. Visually, the airfield stands out against the backdrop of the Front Range mountain ridge, creating an impressive panorama for those driving past the base on the highway.

• Official Website: https://home.army.mil/carson (Main portal of the Fort Carson garrison, aviation section)
• Dispatcher / Base Operations Phone: +1 719-526-3935 (Please note: this line is intended for flight crews and official inquiries, not for passengers)
• Airport Address: Butts Army Airfield, Building 9600, Fort Carson, CO 80913, USA
• Email: No public e-mail available; for official inquiries, use the feedback form on the garrison or US Department of Defense website
• Social Media: News is published on the official U.S. Army Fort Carson pages on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter)
• Lost Luggage Information: There is no civilian baggage tracing service. Items found on the premises are handed over to the Military Police office
• Support Services Contact: Support functions are performed by the Base Operations Office, accessible only to authorized military personnel

When planning a trip to Butts Army Airfield, it is important to remember its specific nature: it is a military facility located within the Fort Carson base. Free access directly to the runway is closed for civilians. Access is possible only with a military ID or a special guest pass, which is issued at the Visitor Control Center near the main gates. Most tourists flying into the region use the civilian Colorado Springs Airport, located just 15 km to the east.

Below are ways to get to the main gates of Fort Carson (Gate 1), through which access to the airfield is granted for visitors with official purposes.

By Car and Rental

A personal or rented car is the most reliable way to get to the location. The journey from Colorado Springs city centre takes approximately 15–20 minutes (excluding traffic). The main route runs along I-25 South or Highway 115.

• Route: Drive south on I-25, use exit 135 (South Academy Blvd) or 132 (Gate 20), following signs for Fort Carson. The main gates (Gate 1) are located off Highway 115.
• Car Rental: All major rental companies (Hertz, Enterprise, Avis) are represented in the city and at the neighbouring civilian airport. Economy class rental costs start from $40–50 per day.
• Important: To enter the base by car, the driver must have a valid driving license, insurance, and vehicle registration.

Taxi and Transfer

Popular taxi and ridesharing services (Uber, Lyft) operate actively in the region. This is a convenient option if you do not wish to rent a car.

• Cost: A trip from the city centre to the checkpoint (Visitor Center) will cost approximately $20–35. From the civilian airport COS, the price will be around $25–40.
• Specifics: Civilian taxis typically do not have the right to drive inside the base. You will be dropped off at the Visitor Center in front of the gates. From there, unless you are met by someone with a military pass, you will have to move around the vast territory of the base on an internal shuttle (if available) or on foot, which is very far to the airfield itself.

Public Transport

Public transport options are extremely limited, as the base is located at a distance from densely populated residential areas.

• Bus: The municipal network Mountain Metropolitan Transit (MMT) serves the surrounding areas. The nearest routes may take you to areas bordering the base, but there are no direct services "to the stairs" for civilians. The fare is about $1.75.
• Recommendation: Using the bus is not recommended for those travelling with luggage or visiting the region for the first time due to logistical complexity and the need for transfers.

Parking

The concept of "airport parking" here differs from civilian norms.

• At the Gates: Near the Visitor Control Center (Gate 1), there is free parking where visitors leave their cars to obtain a pass.
• At the Airfield: Directly at the airfield buildings, parking spaces are intended only for official vehicles and personnel. You cannot leave a car here for a long term "like at an airport".

Alternative Airports for Arrival

If your goal is tourism in Colorado and you are looking for where to fly into, consider the civilian air hubs located nearby. They accept scheduled flights and offer a full range of tourist services:

• Colorado Springs Airport (COS): The nearest and most convenient option (14.5 km).
• Denver International Airport (DEN): A major international hub 130 km away, offering more direct flights and often more favourable fares.
• For trips to ski resorts, Aspen (ASE) or Eagle County Airport (EGE) are suitable, although they are located significantly further away in the mountains.
• There is also the small Gunnison Airport (GUC) in the region, but it is located nearly 190 km from the city.

The structure of Butts Army Airfield (FCS) differs radically from familiar civilian airports. Here, you will not find an extensive system of terminals, gates with jet bridges, or noisy Duty Free zones. The entire complex is designed with a focus on military efficiency, security, and operational readiness.

Number of Terminals and Their Purpose

In fact, the airport has one main functional building (Base Operations Building), which acts as a terminal for passengers and crews. This is a compact structure where all administrative and operational services are concentrated.

• Main Building: This is where the processing of military flights, pilot briefings, and flight planning take place.
• Passenger Zone: Represents a small waiting area, used mainly during troop redeployments or the arrival of official delegations. There is no separation into international and domestic sectors in the civilian sense here.

Map and Departure/Arrival Zones

Logistics inside the building are simplified to the maximum. It is impossible to get lost here, as the route of movement is strictly regulated by personnel.

• Departure Zone: Includes a document check counter (manifest verification) and a waiting area before boarding. Boarding is carried out on foot: passengers exit the building directly onto the apron to the aircraft.
• Arrival Zone: Arriving passengers proceed from the airfield directly to the control zone or baggage claim (if organized for a specific flight). Often, unloading takes place directly at the aircraft onto unit vehicles.
• Transfers: Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for shuttles or travelators. All movements are carried out within a single floor.

Infrastructure Features

Travellers who happen to use this airfield (for example, military personnel and their families on Patriot Express charter flights) should expect spartan conditions.

• Amenities: The building has basic facilities — toilets, vending machines with drinks and snacks, and water coolers.
• No Commercial Activity: There are no shops, restaurants, cafes, or currency exchange points here. It is recommended to bring everything you need with you in advance.
• Wi-Fi and Communication: Internet access may be limited or absent for security reasons. The use of mobile phones on the apron is strictly prohibited.

Check-in and Security Screening

Procedures here take longer and are stricter than in civil aviation, despite the low flow of people.

• Arrival Time: For organized groups (troop deployment), the assembly time is appointed by the command, usually 3–4 hours before departure. For individual passengers (if applicable), it is recommended to arrive no later than 2 hours prior.
• Screening Specifics: Special attention is paid to checking military gear and identification cards (Military ID). The process may include checks by K-9 units.

Navigation Recommendations

The main difficulty is not navigation inside the terminal, but the path to it. The building is located deep within the Fort Carson base.

• Strictly follow the "Butts Army Airfield" signs after entering through the checkpoint.
• Do not turn into zones marked with "Restricted Area" signs.
• Park your car only in designated guest spots in front of the operations building to avoid towing by security services.

The history of Butts Army Airfield is a chronicle of the evolution of military aviation: from simple observation flights to complex operations involving modern attack helicopters. The development of this facility is inextricably linked with the history of the Fort Carson base itself and the US Army's adaptation to operations in mountainous terrain.

Foundation and Hero's Name

The airfield was founded in the early 1940s, practically simultaneously with the creation of the training camp "Camp Carson" in 1942. Initially, it was a modest system of dirt strips intended for light artillery spotter planes. The facility received its modern name in honour of 2nd Lieutenant John E. Butts. The officer was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor — the highest US military decoration — for outstanding heroism displayed in battles in Normandy during World War II.

Infrastructure Development and Specialization

The 1960s became an important stage when the dirt surface was replaced with a hard one, and the runway was extended. This allowed the airfield to accept tactical transport aircraft, such as the reliable C-130 Hercules, which remains the "workhorse" of the army today. However, unlike many other bases, Butts Airfield did not become a hub for strategic aviation. The reception of giant transport aircraft with heavy cargo was historically taken over by the neighbouring airport (now Peterson Space Force Base), which possesses longer runways, while Butts focused on direct support of ground troops.

Massive Reconstruction and the Helicopter Era

In the early 2010s, the airfield underwent a massive reconstruction costing over 30 million dollars. The old runway, worn out by the harsh Colorado climate, was completely replaced. The main goal of the modernization was not to chase the reception of heavy liners, but to create ideal conditions for the Combat Aviation Brigade. The updated infrastructure was optimized for basing and servicing hundreds of helicopters, including attack AH-64 Apache and heavy transport CH-47 Chinook, as well as for working with unmanned aerial vehicles.

Interesting Facts and Features

• Change of Status: Due to the huge number of rotary-wing machines based here, the facility is often called "Butts Army Heliport". It is one of the key basing points for army aviation in the Rocky Mountains region.
• High Altitude School: The location at an altitude of over 1,800 metres above sea level makes the airfield a unique training ground. Pilots from all over the country fly here to practice helicopter control skills in thin air conditions, where engines lose power and blades lose lift.
• Meteorological Challenge: The proximity of the mountain ridge creates complex aerodynamic conditions. Pilots here regularly encounter powerful downdrafts and sharp gusts of wind from the mountains, which requires filigree piloting technique.

Since Butts Army Airfield (FCS) is an active military facility, the range of services here differs radically from what tourists are used to seeing in civilian terminals. The infrastructure is oriented primarily towards fulfilling service tasks, meeting the needs of personnel, and operational readiness. Passengers arriving or departing through this airfield (usually military personnel and their family members) should be prepared for spartan conditions directly in the departure zone and rely on the developed infrastructure of the Fort Carson garrison located nearby.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shops

Directly in the airfield operations building (terminal), there are no full-fledged cafes or restaurants. The waiting area is equipped only with vending machines offering drinks, snacks, and chocolate bars. There are no Duty Free shops or souvenir stalls here.

However, just a few minutes' drive from the airfield, within the Fort Carson base itself, excellent infrastructure is located:

• Main Exchange (PX): A large shopping centre where you can buy clothes, electronics, and essentials (accessible with a military ID).
• Food Courts: Popular chain establishments operate on the base, such as Burger King, Subway, Starbucks, Qdoba, and others.
• Commissary: A large grocery supermarket for military personnel and their families.

Lounges and VIP Services

The concept of business lounges or VIP lounges (Priority Pass, Lounge Key) is not applied at a military airfield. The waiting area is a general hall with seats. For senior command staff or official delegations, separate briefing rooms may be organized, but they are not accessible to ordinary passengers.

Communication and Wi-Fi

Internet access on the airfield territory is strictly regulated by security measures (OPSEC).

• Wi-Fi: Open public Wi-Fi networks in the departure zone are most often absent or have limited access. It is recommended to rely on your own mobile internet.
• Charging Stations: Specialized stands for charging gadgets are scarce. Passengers are strongly advised to carry fully charged portable batteries (Power Banks).

Financial Services

There are no currency exchange points at the airfield. ATMs are usually located in key public areas of the Fort Carson base (at the Exchange store or at the entrance), but are not guaranteed directly in the airfield building. It is recommended to withdraw cash US dollars in advance before arriving at the base.

Medical Services

In case of emergencies, the airfield is staffed with qualified medical personnel ready to provide first aid. For more serious cases, a full-fledged hospital operates on the base territory — Evans Army Community Hospital, which is one of the best medical institutions in the US Army system.

Services for Passengers with Children and Reduced Mobility

• For Children: There are no specialized playrooms or mother-and-child rooms in the airfield terminal. If you are travelling with family (for example, during redeployment), it is recommended to bring everything necessary for the entertainment and care of the child.
• Accessibility: The airfield building is single-story, which facilitates movement. Restrooms are equipped for people with disabilities. Airfield personnel are always ready to assist with boarding and disembarking, however, special ambulifts may not be available — boarding is often carried out via stairs or a ramp.

Accommodation: Hotels Nearby

Sleeping in a "capsule hotel" inside the terminal is not an option. Accommodation options are divided into two categories:

• On the Base (On-Post): The Candlewood Suites on Fort Carson hotel (IHG Army Hotels). This is an excellent option with modern rooms and kitchens, but staying here requires access rights to the base.
• In the City (Off-Post): The nearest civilian hotels are located along Highway 115 and in the southern part of Colorado Springs (Broadmoor or World Arena areas). Popular options include DoubleTree by Hilton, Hampton Inn, and Holiday Inn Express. The journey to them will take 15–20 minutes by car.

It is important to immediately note the specifics of dining at Butts Army Airfield (FCS). Since this is a military facility with limited passenger flow, you will not find the gastronomic scene familiar to major civilian airports with fine dining restaurants, wine bars, or numerous cafes in the departure zone. The catering system here is built on the principle of military functionality.

Inside the Airfield Building (Terminal)

Directly in the flight waiting area (Base Operations Building), snacking opportunities are minimal. There is no full kitchen or cafe with service here.

• Vending Machines: The only available option on-site is vending machines. You can purchase bottled water, soda, energy drinks, chips, chocolate, and other pre-packaged snacks.
• Coffee: Usually, simple filter coffee is available from a machine or thermos in the waiting area, but one should not count on a barista and latte art here.
• Recommendation: This option is suitable only for quickly satisfying hunger before boarding. If you have a long flight or wait ahead, it is strongly recommended to eat in advance.

Main Dining Zones on Base (Near the Airfield)

Since only persons with the right to be on the Fort Carson base have access to the airfield, passengers can use the developed infrastructure of the garrison, located just 5–10 minutes' drive from the runway. The main gastronomic centre is located in the Main Exchange (PX) shopping complex.

A large food court is located here, offering popular chain brands familiar to everyone:

• Quick Snack: For sandwich lovers, Subway and Charleys Philly Steaks are open. This is an excellent choice for those who want to take food with them on the road.
• Hearty Lunch: Burger lovers will find Burger King or Arby's here. For fans of Mexican cuisine, the Qdoba Mexican Eats chain is available, offering burritos and bowls.
• Coffee and Desserts: Several Starbucks outlets operate on the base territory, where you can drink familiar quality coffee and have a pastry before heading to the airfield.

Dietary and Special Meals

Finding specialized vegan or Halal restaurants on the base itself can be difficult, however, chain establishments at the food court allow you to adapt the order to your needs:

• Vegetarians and Vegans: The best choice would be Qdoba or Subway, where you can assemble a salad or sandwich exclusively from plant-based ingredients, opting out of meat and cheese.
• Gluten-Free Diet: In the same establishments, you can order "bowls" (dishes in a bowl without bread), which reduces the risk of gluten consumption, however, one should remember about possible cross-contamination in a shared kitchen.

Prices and Opening Hours

Meals on the Fort Carson base territory generally cost less than in civilian airports or in the city centre.

• Average Bill: A full lunch in chain cafes will cost $8–15 per person. Prices in vending machines at the airfield are standard (about $1.50–$3.00 per item).
• Opening Hours: Vending machines at the airfield are available 24/7. The food court at the Main Exchange is usually open from 10:30 to 19:00 (hours may be reduced on weekends). Starbucks often opens earlier, around 06:00 in the morning, to serve the morning flow of military personnel.

Advice to Passengers

Given the strict security rules and lack of service on the airfield itself, the best strategy is to have a hearty meal at the base food court or in the city of Colorado Springs before going through control at the airfield. Bringing liquids through screening, as in civilian airports, may be prohibited, so it is better to consume drinks before entering the departure zone.

Travelling through a military airfield differs radically from the experience in civilian airports. There are no business lounges or duty-free shops here, and priority is always given to mission execution rather than passenger comfort. Nevertheless, proper preparation will help make your flight via Butts Army Airfield (Fort Carson) as calm and efficient as possible.

Arrival Time and Check-in

Punctuality here is not just a recommendation, but an order. Registration (manifestation) processes are manual and require more time.

• Arrive Early: If you are flying with an organized group or a charter flight, follow the command's instructions. Usually, assembly is announced 3–4 hours before departure for personnel and cargo checks. For individual departures, it is recommended to be on site at least 2 hours in advance.
• Documents at Hand: Keep your Military ID and Orders in an easily accessible place. They will be checked several times: at the base entrance, at the terminal entrance, and before boarding.
• Dress Code: If you are military personnel, clarify the Uniform of the Day requirements for the flight. For civilian family members, comfortable, closed clothing and flat shoes are recommended.

Security Features and Hand Luggage

Security rules at a military facility are stricter than in civil aviation (TSA) and have their own specifics.

• Electronics and Photos: This is a critically important point. Photography and video recording on the flight line are strictly prohibited. Do not attempt to take selfies against the background of helicopters or aircraft — this can lead to phone confiscation and administrative measures.
• Prohibited Items: Besides the standard set (sharp objects, flammable substances), it is categorically forbidden to bring personal weapons onto a military aircraft without appropriate accompanying documents and commander's permission. Alcohol is also strictly prohibited.
• Liquids: If you are flying on a military cargo aircraft (e.g., C-130), rules on liquids may be more lenient, but on commercial charters (Patriot Express), standard restrictions apply (containers up to 100 ml in a transparent bag).

Seat Selection and In-Flight Comfort

Your comfort depends directly on the type of aircraft.

• Charter Flights: If it is a civilian liner chartered by the army, seating may be free or assigned by rank. Try to take an aisle seat to be able to stretch.
• Cargo Aircraft (MilAir): If you have to fly on a transport plane, be prepared for "web seating" — canvas benches along the sides. In this case, definitely bring warm clothes (it can be very cold in the cargo hold) and high-quality earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones, as the noise level will be high.

Customs Control and Transfers

Butts Airfield is often the final point, but if you have arrived from abroad:

• Agricultural Control: If you are returning from a deployment zone, your gear and boots must be perfectly clean. Traces of soil can cause delays at customs due to strict phytosanitary standards.
• Transfers: There are no direct transfers to civilian flights here. If you have a subsequent flight scheduled from Denver or Colorado Springs airport, allow at least 3–4 hours for the transfer between bases and the civilian airport, considering time for disembarkation, baggage claim, and travel.

Tips for Saving and Preparation

• Food to Go: This is the main advice. There are no cafes in the terminal. Be sure to eat a hearty meal before leaving for the airfield and take a "dry ration" with you: sandwiches, protein bars, nuts.
• Empty Bottle: Bring an empty reusable bottle. You will be able to fill it with water from a cooler after passing screening, which will save money and keep you hydrated.
• Offline Entertainment: Wi-Fi may be absent. Download movies, music, or books to your devices in advance and do not forget to take a portable battery (Power Bank) — there won't be enough power outlets for everyone.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

In military aviation, the concept of "schedule" often yields to the concept of "mission readiness". Delays due to technical reasons or weather happen often here.

• Stay Calm: Complaints to staff will not speed up the aircraft repair or improve the weather. Treat this philosophically.
• Communication: Keep loved ones informed of changes, but remember operational security (OPSEC) rules — do not publish the exact departure time and mission details on social networks.
• Keep Warm: Have a light jacket or blanket at hand, even if it is summer outside. Waiting halls or hangars can be cool during long waits.