Denver International Airport (DEN) Blueprint: Terminals, Airlines, Passenger Stats & More

Denver International Airport (DEN) is the biggest airport in North America in terms of geographical area, with an area of more than 33,531 acres, and it is situated about 40 km northeast of downtown Denver. DEN airport was opened in 1995 to replace the previous Stapleton Airport and is characterized by its iconic tent-like Jeppesen Terminal and large underground train system that links its three concourses. It is a hub of United Airlines and Frontier Airlines and a focus city of Southwest Airlines. The passenger airline traffic and flight in the airport has experienced a spectacular increase in the past five years as it recovered after the COVID-19 pandemic and exceeded 82,358,744 passengers annually in 2024. In this blog, we will get into the details to learn about the major details of DEN.

How Near to the Major Cities?

Denver International Airport (DEN) is positioned in a way that it not only serves the city of Denver but also other big regions in Colorado. The distance between DEN and major cities and the available means of transport are presented below in a brief overview:

Major Flights in Denver International Airport (DEN)

Denver International Airport (DEN) is not only one of the busiest airports in the United States but also a crucial point of air transportation both in the country and abroad. Being one of the most preferred airports in North America in terms of land area, DEN is significant in linking people in the country and worldwide. It is a hub of United Airlines and Frontier Airlines, and a hub of Southwest Airlines.

Facilities at Denver International Airport (DEN) 

Denver International Airport (DEN) is among the largest and most contemporary airports in the world. It is approximately 23 miles (37 km) outside of downtown Denver, far removed from the former Stapleton Airport that was replaced in 1995. DEN is located on a massive land area of more than 52 square miles. In 1989, the vote to add the land to the city of Denver made the city approximately 50 percent larger! Interestingly, on your way to the airport in Denver, you drive through another city, Aurora, before getting to DEN. The same applies to the airport train, which is called the A Line.

Terminals and Concourses

DEN has a single principal facility referred to as the Jeppesen Terminal, after an aviation safety pioneer, Elrey Jeppesen. This terminal has access to three concourses (A, B, and C) that are separated and linked by an underground train system. As of early 2025, there are 169 gates.

Concourse A

The only place that you can walk to directly via the terminal using a bridge is Concourse A. It is also possible to use the train. Here is where all international flights that require passport checks arrive. Concourse A is composed of 60 gates, and it can accommodate the largest aircraft in the world, such as the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747-8. The airlines that operate in this concourse are United (international arrivals), Frontier, Delta, JetBlue, and other international airlines.

Concourse B

United Airlines only operates at Concourse B. It is the busiest concourse as it has 72 gates, and it has some special gates that are used by regional (smaller) flights.

Concourse C 

Primarily a Southwest Airlines concourse, although it is also used by American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and other regional airlines. It has 47 gates, some of which are ground-level gates to accommodate smaller aircraft.

Passengers & Travelers Growth (2020- 2024)

According to the official DEN and ACI data:

Passenger Services and Amenities at Denver International Airport (DEN)

Denver International Airport is not only about flights; there is a great variety of services and amenities that can make your trip more comfortable and convenient. DEN has you covered whether you are traveling with children, want a quiet place to relax, or need to catch up on work. The following are some of the major services and amenities that passengers can get at the airport:

Amenities and Services at DEN:

• Wi-Fi and Technology: Wi-Fi is free and high-speed and is available throughout the airport, and there are numerous charging stations to ensure that your devices are charged.

• Children and Families: Family restrooms, baby care centers, and kid-friendly zones make traveling with children a lot easier.

• Outdoor Decks and Firepits: Spend some time outside to enjoy mountain views and fresh air in outdoor seating with comfortable firepits.

• Interfaith Chapel: A quiet place where all travelers may pray, meditate, or contemplate.

• The Westin Hotel at DEN: This hotel is located within the airport, and it provides fashionable accommodations, restaurants, a fitness center, and convenient access to the terminals.

• Lost and Found: The airport has a counter named Lost and Found where you can check for the item you lost.

• Traveling with a Pet: Pets can travel with ease as there are pet relief areas within and outside the terminal.

• Currency Exchange: Services are offered to international travelers who may require exchanging money before or after a flight in a convenient way.

• Smoking Areas: The Jeppesen Terminal has designated outdoor smoking areas on either end of the building.

• Mail Services: Passengers can use the USPS drop boxes and supplies of mail to send mail or postcards on the road.

Final Thoughts 

Denver International Airport is not just a travel hub but a world-class airport that has been built with the idea of comfort, convenience, and expansion. With its large terminals and contemporary facilities, its growing gate system, and its international reach, DEN is still emerging as a significant global and domestic travel hub. If you are traveling to DEN on business or for leisure, make sure to book your Denver flight ticket in advance; don’t wait for the last moment. Either way, you will have a pleasant trip on the ground and in the air, and there are numerous services to help you make the experience less stressful and more enjoyable.

(Data Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denver_International_Airport)