Colorado Springs Airport Celebrates “Flights and Bites” Event, Showcasing New Concessions and Continued ElevateCOS Modernization

Colorado Springs Airport (COS) on April 7 hosted its "Flights and Bites" grand opening event, celebrating the debut of its newest concessions, Colorado Craft and Evolve by Hudson, and highlighting significant progress in the airport's ongoing ElevateCOS modernization efforts.

Held on the secure side of the concourse, the event welcomed media, partners and community members for an afternoon of local food, beer flights, beverage samples and retail experiences, offering a first look at COS's expanding amenities.

"Thank you for joining us as we celebrate the grand opening of Colorado Craft and Evolve by Hudson, two additions that significantly enhance the travel experience at COS," said Alex Kovacs, director of aviation at Colorado Springs Airport. "With new concessions, refreshed amenities and ongoing modernization, COS is becoming a more accessible, comfortable and welcoming gateway for our community. We are proud of our progress, grateful for our partners and excited for what's ahead. This is your airport, and we are here to serve you."

The opening of Colorado Craft and Evolve by Hudson marks a significant milestone in COS's ElevateCOS improvements. Evolve by Hudson expands the airport's retail offerings, joining two existing Hudson locations to provide travelers with greater convenience and a broader selection of travel essentials and specialty items.

"These improvements are not only enhancing and easing the travel experience today but also preparing COS for future growth and all without the use of taxpayer dollars," said Mayor Yemi Mobolade. "The modernization effort extends beyond the terminal itself. The airport has made significant progress on ramp construction and the integration of the airline common-use system to increase competition and improve gate efficiency."

Expanded concessions enhance passenger experience

"I'd like to extend my sincere thanks to the entire team at Colorado Springs Airport for their continued partnership," said Jordi Martin-Consuegra, chief operating officer for Avolta North America. "This new location reflects our shared commitment to delivering high-quality, meaningful experiences for travelers. At Hudson, our purpose is simple: to make the traveler's journey as rewarding as the destination. We do that by providing convenience, quality and a strong sense of place, and we believe this new store brings that promise to life in a fresh and engaging way."

"Being local is who we are," said Dylan Currier, owner of Colorado Craft. "We live and work in this community, and our goal is to give travelers an authentic taste of Colorado while creating a memorable first or last impression of the city."

"Colorado Craft is exactly the kind of brand we love bringing into airports because it offers travelers something they cannot get just anywhere," said Kyle Phillips, vice president of SSP America. "It provides an immediate connection to Colorado Springs through an experience that feels distinctly local."

Modernization efforts continue across the airport

Mayor Mobolade highlighted several key infrastructure and operational improvements completed or underway as part of COS's broader ElevateCOS modernization strategy:

• Significant progress on ramp construction to enhance aircraft operations
• Implementation of a common-use system to improve gate efficiency and increase airline competition
• Installation of an advanced exit-lane security system to support safe and efficient passenger movement
• Completion of the federal inspection station in 2025, expanding opportunities for international connectivity
• Completion of Phase 1 of the Milton Proby Parkway rehabilitation project, strengthening access to the airport
• Continued development of Peak Innovation Park to support long-term economic growth

Further enhancements are planned as part of the airport's continued growth. Construction on a new food court is scheduled to begin in September, starting with Einstein Bros. Bagels and Smashburger, both expected to open in February. Construction on Street Eats by Brother Luck will follow.

Media Contact

Amanda R. Rantis
Public Communications Specialist II
719-550-1924

About COS Airport: About COS - Colorado Springs Airport makes travel easy with daily nonstop flights and hundreds of global connections. COS is committed to providing exceptional service and a hassle-free experience, so your journey is smooth from start to finish. Wherever you're headed, we're here to make getting there easy. Travel Easy. Fly COS. For more information, visit flycos.com, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

About Hudson: Hudson, a subsidiary of Avolta, operates more than 1,000 travel retail stores in nearly 90 airports and travel hubs across North America, including the well-known Hudson stores. Avolta works to improve every part of the travel experience through retail, food and beverage, innovation, and strong customer service. To learn more please visit: avoltaworld.com.

About SSP America: SSP America is part of SSP Group plc, a global operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations. The company employs about 49,000 people and operates around 3,000 locations in 38 countries. SSP America designs, creates, and runs restaurants, quick-service locations, bars, cafés, lounges, and convenience stores in airports, train stations, and other travel hubs. To learn more please visit: america.foodtravelexperts.com