Denver International Airport (DEN): The World's Fifth Busiest and America's Largest by Land Area
Denver International Airport (DEN) is one of the most consequential aviation hubs on the planet, ranking as the fifth busiest airport in the world by passenger traffic and handling over 77 million passengers annually. DEN opened in 1995 after a famously troubled construction period, replacing Stapleton Airport. Its iconic white tensile roof structure — designed to evoke the snow-capped Rocky Mountains — has become one of the most recognized architectural landmarks in American aviation. Situated on 53 square miles of land 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver, DEN is the largest airport in the United States by land area. United Airlines uses DEN as its second-largest hub, and Southwest, Frontier, American, Delta, and dozens of other carriers operate extensive service here.
DEN operates six runways, including the 16,000-foot Runway 16R/34L — one of the longest commercial runways in North America — and five additional runways ranging from 12,000 to 14,000 feet. The airport sits at 5,431 feet elevation, the highest major commercial airport in the United States, requiring longer runway distances for takeoff and landing. As a hub in the FAA's Northwest Mountain Region, DEN connects Colorado to over 200 domestic and international destinations, serving as the primary gateway for millions of travelers heading to Colorado's ski resorts including Aspen, Vail, Telluride, and Breckenridge.
How many airlines and destinations does DEN serve?
Denver International Airport is served by more than 25 airlines offering nonstop service to over 200 domestic and international destinations. United Airlines is the largest carrier, operating from Concourse B. International carriers including Lufthansa, British Airways, Air Canada, and others provide direct transatlantic and transborder service.
What is the underground train system at DEN?
The Automated Guideway Transit system connects Concourses A, B, and C with the main Jeppesen Terminal below the Great Hall. The train runs continuously and is free for all ticketed passengers. The ride from the terminal to the farthest concourse takes about six minutes.
How do I get from downtown Denver to DEN?
The University of Colorado A Line commuter rail connects Denver Union Station to DEN in approximately 37 minutes with frequent daily service. Rideshare, taxis, shuttles, and private car services also serve DEN. Driving via I-70 East and Pena Boulevard takes 35 to 50 minutes depending on traffic.
Why does DEN have such long runways?
At 5,431 feet elevation, reduced air density means aircraft engines produce less thrust and wings generate less lift, requiring longer takeoff rolls. The 16,000-foot runway accommodates fully loaded wide-body aircraft in high-density altitude conditions, especially in summer when heat compounds the elevation effect.
What is the story behind DEN's iconic white roof?
The fiberglass-and-Teflon tensile roof over the Jeppesen Terminal was designed by Fentress Bradburn Architects. Its 34 peaks evoke the Rocky Mountains. The translucent material admits natural daylight and is self-cleaning in rain. It is one of the most photographed airport structures in the world.
Denver International Airport - DEN Contact Information
Address, Phone Number, and Hours for an Airports in Denver, Colorado.
| Name | Denver International Airport - DEN |
| Address | 8500 Peña Boulevard, Denver CO 80249 Map |
| Phone | (303) 342-2000 |
| Website | |
| Hours |
Map of Denver International Airport - DEN
Practical Information for Travelers at Denver International Airport
Denver International Airport's Jeppesen Terminal houses check-in counters, baggage claim, and ground transportation on multiple levels. Level 1 is baggage claim with the commuter rail station, rental cars (via shuttle to the consolidated facility), taxis, and rideshare. Level 5 is the departure level with security checkpoints. The Great Hall renovation has added new concessions and seating. DEN has dozens of dining and retail options including Colorado-themed restaurants and shops throughout the concourses.
DEN is managed by the City and County of Denver's Department of Aviation and is fully self-supporting through aviation revenues. For travelers connecting to ski resorts, the ground transportation center offers direct shuttles to Breckenridge, Vail, Aspen, Steamboat Springs, and other mountain communities. The airport's 5,431-foot elevation means passengers arriving from sea level may feel mild altitude effects; staying hydrated is advisable. DEN's 53-square-mile campus includes land reserved for a potential fourth runway and future terminal expansion.