Navigating Denver International Airport starts with understanding its unique architecture. The facility centers around the iconic tented Jeppesen Terminal, which handles all check-in counters, baggage claim areas, and security screening. Beyond security, passengers access three distinct midfield concourses—Concourse A, Concourse B, and Concourse C—via an underground automated train system or a pedestrian skybridge to Concourse A.
Knowing how the layout fits together prevents missed connections and long terminal walks. Whether you're checking bags on Level 6 or sprinting to a regional gate on Concourse B, mastering the terminal flow saves significant time. Official updates and real-time gate changes are tracked directly through the Denver International Airport Official Site.
Jeppesen Terminal Layout and Levels
The main Jeppesen Terminal is split vertically into six distinct functional levels. Getting turned around here is easy if you don't know which floor handles your specific task.
- Level 1: Transit Center, regional buses, and access to the Regional Transportation District (RTD) A Line train connecting downtown Denver.
- Level 4: Passenger arrivals, baggage claim, and commercial vehicle curbside pickup.
- Level 5: International arrivals, custom processing, and the Westin Hotel entrance.
- Level 6: Passenger check-in counters, ticketing, and departures curbside drop-off, alongside the major West and East security checkpoints.
Levels 5 and 6 form the main public hubs. If you're arriving by car, make sure your driver knows whether you're flying domestic or international to pick the correct side of the terminal.
Navigating Concourses A, B, and C
Once you clear security, you'll head down to Level 4 to catch the underground train. Each concourse serves specific airlines and features distinct layouts.
Concourse A
Concourse A handles a mix of domestic and international carriers, including United international arrivals, Delta, Frontier, and several regional partners. You can reach Concourse A either by taking a five-minute underground train ride or by walking across the pedestrian skybridge directly from the terminal, which offers clear views of the tarmac.
Concourse B
Concourse B serves as the primary operational hub for United Airlines. It features the highest volume of gates and extensive shopping and dining options. You cannot walk to Concourse B from the main terminal; you must take the underground train. The train ride from Jeppesen Terminal takes roughly three minutes.
Concourse C
Concourse C is dominated by Southwest Airlines and American Airlines. It sits at the far end of the underground train line, approximately a ten-minute total transit time from the main terminal. Recent expansions have added new gate spaces and updated dining areas near the eastern end of this concourse.
Security Checkpoints and Wait Times
Denver International Airport operates major security checkpoints on Level 6 (East and West), as well as checkpoints directly tied to concourse access points.
- East Security Checkpoint: Handles standard screening and TSA PreCheck lanes during peak morning and afternoon blocks.
- West Security Checkpoint: Operates with extended hours, often staying open later into the evening for late-night flights.
Lines fluctuate drastically depending on the hour. Arriving at least two hours before a domestic flight—and three hours for international departures—is standard practice to avoid missing boarding cutoffs.
Common Navigation Mistakes to Avoid
Travelers frequently run into predictable bottlenecks because they treat the airport like a traditional single-building layout.
- Mistaking the Terminal Side: Dropping passengers off on the East side when they need the West ticketing counter creates a long, frustrating walk across the massive terminal length.
- Attempting to Walk to B or C: You cannot walk to Concourse B or C from the terminal. Factor in train wait times of two to four minutes during peak travel windows.
- Ignoring Gate Changes: Gate shifts happen frequently on Concourse A and C. Always double-check digital airport monitors rather than relying solely on your initial boarding pass.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk between all concourses at Denver Airport?
You can walk between Jeppesen Terminal and Concourse A via the pedestrian skybridge. However, you cannot walk to Concourse B or C; you must take the underground transit train.
Where is baggage claim located?
Baggage carousels are located on Level 4 of the main Jeppesen Terminal. Carousels are split between East and West sides depending on your airline.
Which concourse handles international arrivals?
Most international flights without pre-clearance arrive at Concourse A, where passengers clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection before exiting to baggage claim.
Is there an underground train connecting the concourses?
Yes. An automated guideway transit system runs continuously beneath the terminal and concourses, moving passengers back and forth in minutes.
