Denver International Airport (DEN)

Denver International Airport (KDEN/DEN) is a major air transportation hub serving the metropolitan area of Denver, Colorado, and the surrounding Front Range region. As the largest airport in the Western Hemisphere by land area, it plays a critical role in connecting the Mountain West to destinations across North America and the world.

Opened on February 28, 1995, to replace the capacity-strained Stapleton International Airport, DEN is recognized for its unique architectural design. The main Jeppesen Terminal features a fabric roof with distinctive peaks, intended to evoke the nearby Rocky Mountains. The airport has become a significant part of the region's identity, known for its public art collection, including the prominent "Blue Mustang" sculpture on the main access road.

The airport is located approximately 25 miles (40 km) northeast of Downtown Denver. Travelers can reach it via Peña Boulevard, which connects to Interstate 70. The most direct public transit option is the Regional Transportation District's (RTD) A Line commuter rail, which provides a 37-minute connection between the airport and Denver Union Station. Taxis, ride-sharing services, and shuttle buses offer alternative ground transportation.

DEN is one of the busiest airports in the world, having served over 77 million passengers in 2023. It functions as a major hub for United Airlines and Southwest Airlines and is a primary operating base for Frontier Airlines. The airport facilitates a vast network of domestic and international flights, with non-stop service to cities throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia.

The airport complex consists of the landside Jeppesen Terminal and three airside concourses: A, B, and C. The terminal houses passenger check-in, baggage claim, and main security checkpoints. An efficient underground train connects the terminal to all three concourses. Concourse A is also accessible via a pedestrian bridge from the terminal. All concourses offer a wide selection of restaurants, shops, and passenger lounges, with free Wi-Fi available throughout the facility.

For a smooth travel experience, it is advisable to arrive at least two hours before a domestic departure and three hours for international flights. Security screening times can vary, so checking current wait times is recommended. When connecting between flights, passengers should account for travel time on the underground train between concourses. The A Line train offers a predictable and efficient transfer to downtown Denver for those with longer layovers or as a final destination.