Current Weather
Raw METAR
Weather Briefing
IFRGarfield County Regional Airport is currently reporting instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions with clear skies and 2.349 km visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the east (90°) at 14 knots with gusts to 28 knots. Runway 08/26 is favored with a 14-knot headwind and 2-knot crosswind component (gusting to 5 knots crosswind). Student pilots and low-time aviators should exercise caution.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is reduced to 2.349 km. IFR conditions prevail and an instrument clearance is required for operations in controlled airspace. Skies are clear with unlimited ceiling.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 32°C (90°F) with a dewpoint of 10°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 fluctuate between VFR and MVFR. VFR pilots should be prepared for deteriorating conditions. Expected weather includes: Light Thunderstorm Rain. Expect variable wind speeds ranging from 4 to 16 knots. Temporary MVFR conditions are forecast with Light Thunderstorm Rain between 00:00Z and 01:00Z. There is a 30% probability of MVFR conditions with Light Thunderstorm Rain between 21:00Z and 23:00Z.
Pilot Recommendations
An instrument rating and IFR flight plan are required. Verify that destination and alternate approach minimums are above current and forecast conditions.
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: 08
|
7,000 ft | 100 ft | ASP | 92° |
↑ 13.8 kt
•
↔ 2.4 kt
10° angle
|
Weather Statistics - KRIL
8,022 observations | Sep 2025 - Jul 2026Flight Rules Distribution
Garfield County Regional Airport enjoys predominantly VFR conditions, with visual flight rules prevailing 90.4% of the time. Prevailing winds are from the W averaging 7.4 knots, with gusts recorded up to 42 knots. Calm conditions occur 32.8% of the time. Temperature extremes range from -19°C to 39°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are November, July, September.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 8,022 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Jul 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.
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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.