Central Wyoming Regional Airport (RIW)

Central Wyoming Regional Airport operates as a critical transportation hub serving the Wind River region, positioned 3 miles northwest of Riverton at 5,516 feet elevation on 1,250 acres, providing essential connectivity for both Riverton and Lander (30 miles away) communities in Wyoming's rugged interior. Formerly known as Riverton Regional Airport until 2020, this city-owned facility serves as the aviation gateway to Wind River Country, supporting the region's diverse economy including oil and gas operations, cattle ranching, and tourism to nearby wilderness areas.

The airport features two asphalt runways designed for challenging high-altitude operations: the primary runway 10/28 measuring 8,204 feet accommodating regional jets and larger aircraft, complemented by runway 1/19 at 4,800 feet serving general aviation and smaller aircraft operations. Terminal facilities provide comprehensive passenger services including complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the building, comfortable waiting areas, and essential amenities supporting United Express daily service to Denver International Airport operated by SkyWest Airlines.

Strategically located in the heart of Wyoming's energy corridor, the airport supports business aviation serving oil and gas industry operations, ranching enterprises, and government services throughout the Wind River region. The facility maintains specialized capabilities for serving the Wind River Indian Reservation and coordinates with regional emergency services, providing critical medical evacuation capabilities across vast distances in Wyoming's sparsely populated interior.

Terminal operations accommodate diverse passenger needs from energy industry professionals and agricultural specialists to tourists accessing Wyoming's pristine wilderness areas and cultural attractions. The airport's high-altitude location and dual-runway configuration enable reliable operations despite challenging mountain weather conditions, while its strategic position 75 miles from Dubois provides access to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, making it an essential transportation link connecting Wyoming's remote communities to national aviation networks and supporting the state's economic development initiatives.