Current Weather
Raw METAR
Weather Briefing
VFRGarfield County Regional Airport is currently reporting visual flight rules (VFR) conditions with clear skies and 10 SM visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the west-southwest (250°) at 22 knots with gusts to 37 knots. Runway 26 is favored with a 22-knot headwind and 4-knot crosswind component (gusting to 6 knots crosswind). These are strong winds that may exceed crosswind limits for light aircraft.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is 10 SM. Skies are clear with unlimited ceiling.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 26°C (79°F) with a dewpoint of -6°C, indicating very dry conditions. High temperatures at this elevation may result in significant density altitude effects. Pilots should calculate density altitude and adjust performance expectations accordingly.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 24 hours. Conditions are expected to remain VFR throughout the forecast period. Winds are forecast to reach up to 22 knots during the period. Expect variable wind speeds ranging from 2 to 22 knots.
Pilot Recommendations
Conditions are favorable for visual flight. Gusty conditions may exceed demonstrated crosswind components for many general aviation aircraft. Check your aircraft's limitations.
This briefing is generated from real-time METAR and TAF data. Always verify with official sources before flight.
Forecast (TAF)
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Airport Runway Layout
Runway Information
| Runway | Length | Width | Surface | Heading | Wind Component |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 08/26
Active: 26
|
7,000 ft | 100 ft | ASP | 92° |
↑ 21.7 kt
•
↔ 3.8 kt
10° angle
|
Weather Statistics - KRIL
6,950 observations | Sep 2025 - Jun 2026Flight Rules Distribution
Garfield County Regional Airport enjoys predominantly VFR conditions, with visual flight rules prevailing 89.7% of the time. Prevailing winds are from the W averaging 7.2 knots, with gusts recorded up to 42 knots. Calm conditions occur 34.5% of the time. Temperature extremes range from -19°C to 34°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are November, September, March.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 6,950 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Jun 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
Garfield County Regional Airport - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About Garfield County Regional Airport
Overview
Garfield County Regional Airport serves the Rifle, Colorado area as a medium-sized airport situated at 5,548 feet mean sea level. The airport provides critical aviation infrastructure in western Colorado, supporting regional transportation needs with its 7,000-foot asphalt runway positioned at 08/26 orientation.
Flying Conditions
Weather observations reveal predominantly favorable VFR conditions, with 87.9% of recorded periods offering clear flying weather. Western winds dominate at 270 degrees with an average speed of 5.9 knots, though pilots should anticipate occasional gusts up to 30 knots. Temperature ranges from -13°C to 32°C suggest significant seasonal variations that require careful preflight planning.
Notable Features
The airport's elevated position at 5,548 feet MSL demands heightened awareness of density altitude effects, particularly during warmer months. Its geographic coordinates (39.526299, -107.726997) place it in a mountainous region with potential for rapidly changing weather conditions and complex terrain interactions that pilots must carefully assess.
Approach Considerations
Runway 08/26 offers consistent wind alignment, with 100% favorable wind conditions and a modest average crosswind of 3.2 knots. Pilots will find November, September, and October statistically provide the most stable VFR conditions, with excellent visibility averaging 9.6 statute miles and minimal occurrence of low instrument meteorological conditions.
Data Sources & Accuracy: Airport information sourced from OurAirports.com, a collaborative database of worldwide airport data. Weather data from official aviation weather services including NOAA Aviation Weather Center and international METAR/TAF providers. Information is updated regularly but pilots should always verify current conditions and NOTAMs through official channels before flight operations.
Learn More
Recommended guides based on current conditions at KRIL
Official Data Sources
Disclaimer: Data is provided for informational purposes only. Pilots must verify all information through official sources before flight operations. Weather conditions change rapidly; always obtain a current briefing from approved weather services.