Navigating Denver International Airport can feel overwhelming because of its massive footprint and unique layout. The airport centers around the iconic Jeppesen Terminal, which handles check-in and baggage claim, paired with three separate concourses—A, B, and C—that sit completely detached from the main building. You'll reach these concourses either by riding the underground Automated Guideway Transit System (AGTS) train or, in the case of Concourse A, by walking across a pedestrian bridge. Knowing how these pieces fit together before you arrive saves you from missed connections and long, frustrating walks.
Getting around DEN successfully requires understanding its vertical stacking and directional split. The Jeppesen Terminal divides strictly into West and East sides based on your airline, while the concourses stretch out linearly across the airfield. Whether you're checking bags, clearing security, or trying to find your gate, mastering the layout ensures a smooth transition from the curb to your airplane seat.
Jeppesen Terminal Breakdown
The Jeppesen Terminal serves as the central hub for all ground operations, ticket counters, and baggage carousels. It's split down the middle into East and West sides. If you're parking, dropping off passengers, or checking in, you need to pick the correct side ahead of time to avoid a long walk across the terminal.
- Level 6 (Departures): This is where you'll find airline check-in desks, ticketing counters, and access to the main security checkpoints. Even-numbered passenger doors sit on the West side, while odd-numbered doors sit on the East side.
- Level 5 (Arrivals & Ground Transportation): This level handles baggage claim, international arrivals, and commercial vehicle pickups like rideshares and taxis. Baggage carousels 1 through 9 are on the East side, and carousels 10 through 19 are on the West side.
- Level 4 (Passenger Pick-up & Transit): Used primarily for personal vehicle pickups, this level also connects you to the Westin Denver International Airport hotel and the transit center for regional buses and trains.
Concourse Layouts: A, B, and C
Once you clear security in the Jeppesen Terminal, you'll head down to Level 4 to catch the underground train, which runs every couple of minutes to all three satellite concourses. Each concourse features its own unique airline alignments and amenity setups.
Concourse A
Concourse A handles a mix of domestic carriers and serves as the primary arrival point for international flights. If you don't want to take the train, you can walk to Concourse A using the pedestrian skybridge, which offers clear views of the tarmac and moving walkways to speed up the trip. Gates range from A26 to A87.
Concourse B
Concourse B is the largest concourse at DEN and serves as the primary hub for United Airlines, alongside several other carriers. You can only reach Concourse B by riding the underground train system. Gates span from B7 all the way to B95. Because of its high volume, it features extensive dining and shopping options clustered around the central core.
Concourse C
Concourse C primarily houses Southwest Airlines and several partner carriers, with gates ranging from C23 to C67. Like Concourse B, the underground train is the only way to get here from the main terminal. It features wide concourse hallways, nursing rooms, and multiple quick-service food options.
Security Checkpoints and Screening Tips
DEN features security checkpoints in both the Jeppesen Terminal (Level 6) and directly across the bridge leading to Concourse A. Wait times can fluctuate wildly depending on the time of day, so checking the official Denver International Airport website for live wait times is always a smart move.
- TSA PreCheck and CLEAR: Expedited lanes are available at both terminal-level checkpoints and select concourse locations. If you're flying out during peak morning rush hours between 5:00 AM and 8:00 AM, these programs save considerable time.
- Bridge Security: The bridge checkpoint leading to Concourse A is a great alternative if the main terminal security lines are backed up, though it has more limited operating hours.
Common Navigation Mistakes to Avoid
Travelers frequently run into trouble at DEN by making a few avoidable errors. Keep these points in mind to keep your trip stress-free:
- Going to the wrong side of the terminal: Dropping off a friend on the East side when they are flying out of the West side means a long trek across the terminal roadway or check-in counters. Check your airline's specific terminal side before heading to Peña Boulevard.
- Underestimating train travel time: While the underground train runs frequently, it takes several minutes to get from the main terminal to Concourse C. Don't wait until boarding starts to head down from the gate area.
- Forgetting about the pedestrian bridge: If you're flying out of Concourse A and want to stretch your legs, skip the train and use the walk-way bridge. It's often faster than waiting for a crowded train during peak travel windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get between concourses at DEN?
You can take the underground train system, which stops at every concourse and the main terminal. If you are moving between the Jeppesen Terminal and Concourse A, you can also walk across the pedestrian bridge.
Where are international flights processed?
International arrivals without pre-clearance land at Concourse A and proceed to the Customs and Border Protection facility located on Level 5 of the Jeppesen Terminal.
Which side of the terminal should I use for drop-off?
It depends entirely on your airline. Major carriers like United operate primarily out of the West side or specific designated zones, while other airlines use the East side. Check your boarding pass or airline app before entering Peña Boulevard.
Can I walk between Concourses B and C?
No, there are no pedestrian walkways connecting the Jeppesen Terminal to Concourses B and C, nor are the concourses connected to each other via walking paths. You must use the underground train.
