โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
40
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Denver International Airport features a distinctive architectural design with its iconic tent-like roof structure inspired by the snow-capped Rocky Mountains, creating one of the most recognizable airport profiles in the world. The airport operates through a single main terminal building connected to three concourses (A, B, and C) via an efficient underground automated train system that provides reliable service throughout the day.
The main terminal houses all check-in facilities, baggage claim areas, and ground transportation access points on multiple levels, with the train station located on Level 5. Concourse A primarily serves United Airlines and its Star Alliance partners as United's major western hub, Concourse B accommodates various domestic and international carriers including American, Delta, and international airlines, while Concourse C handles additional United operations and other carriers. The underground train system operates with frequent service, typically every 2-3 minutes during peak hours and every 4-6 minutes during off-peak periods, making connections between concourses quick and convenient.
Security checkpoints are positioned on Level 6 of the main terminal, with separate north and south checkpoints serving different concourses, plus dedicated international and United Club security areas. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes are available at all checkpoints, with wait times ranging from 15-25 minutes during standard periods to 45-90 minutes during peak travel times, holiday periods, and weather delays that are common during Colorado's winter months.
International operations are distributed across all concourses with customs and immigration facilities located in the main terminal's Level 5. International arrivals proceed through comprehensive CBP facilities including Global Entry kiosks, while connecting passengers follow marked paths to the train system. Weather-related delays are frequent during winter months due to snow and ice conditions requiring extensive de-icing operations.
The airport offers extensive amenities throughout all areas, including restaurants featuring Colorado cuisine and local breweries, retail shops highlighting Colorado products and outdoor gear, and multiple airline lounges including United Clubs in all concourses, an American Admirals Club, and several independent lounges. The airport is renowned for its art installations throughout the terminal and concourses, free Wi-Fi, abundant charging stations, and family-friendly amenities including nursing rooms, children's play areas, and pet relief facilities.
๐ Connection Tips
Denver International Airport (DEN) is a major global hub, and understanding its sprawling layout is key to a smooth connection. The most important tip is the use of the Automated Guideway Transit System (AGTS), the underground train that connects the Jeppesen Terminal to Concourses A, B, and C. The train runs every 2-3 minutes, but it is often extremely crowded; if you are connecting to Concourse A, you can bypass the train by using the pedestrian bridge from the terminal, which offers great views of the airfield. For ground transportation to downtown Denver, the 'A Line' commuter rail is the best connection.
The station is located directly under the Westin Hotel at the Transit Center; a $10 ticket serves as a day pass for all regional transit. For rideshares (Uber/Lyft), the pickup zones are on Level 6, while taxis and shuttles use Level 5. A major operational factor at DEN is the 'High Plains' weather; winter blizzards and summer thunderstorms can cause sudden, massive delays. Always build a significant buffer (at least 90-120 minutes) for connections, especially during winter months when de-icing procedures are standard.
Within the terminal, security lines can be long, but the West and South checkpoints now feature updated technology to improve flow. For those with long layovers, Concourse B houses the main United Club hub, while the outdoor decks on the ends of the concourses provide fresh air and mountain views. Lastly, check your gate carefully, as the concourses are very long and walking from the train station to the furthest gate (like B95) can take 10 to 15 minutes.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
International โ Domestic
75
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is the primary international airport serving New Mexico, located just three miles southeast of downtown Albuquerque. The airport boasts a distinctive Pueblo-style architectural terminal, which is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. This single, multi-level terminal efficiently manages all arrivals and departures, featuring a logical layout designed for passenger convenience. The lower level is dedicated to arriving passengers, housing baggage claim areas (three in total to serve Concourses A and B) and providing direct exits to ground transportation.
The upper level of the terminal is the departure zone, where travelers will find airline ticketing counters, security checkpoints, and access to the two main concourses, Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A primarily serves American Airlines, Delta, and United, while Southwest Airlines predominantly operates out of Concourse B. The terminal has a total of 22 gates, ensuring ample capacity for its scheduled domestic flights and limited international services. Recent upgrades include a TSA Checkpoint Terminal Connector Project, which has enhanced security screening with up to four lanes and modern passenger amenities like new escalators and elevators.
Amenities at ABQ are comprehensive for a regional international facility. Passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi, numerous charging stations, a variety of shops (including those offering local artisanal gifts), and diverse dining options ranging from cafes and fast-food outlets to restaurants serving New Mexican cuisine. Additional facilities like a Meditation Room and an observation deck contribute to a comfortable travel experience, complemented by a notable art collection displayed throughout the terminal.
๐ Connection Tips
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) offers excellent ground transportation connectivity just 3 miles southeast of downtown. ABQ RIDE provides completely free bus service (fare-free since November 2023) with Route 50 connecting the airport to downtown via Union Square Bus Station every 15-30 minutes, taking just 24 minutes total - the bus stop is conveniently located on the lower level at the west end of the shuttle island. Route 50 also connects to the Alvarado Transportation Center downtown where passengers can transfer to the New Mexico Rail Runner Express.
Rail Runner connections are enhanced through Route 350 (Railrunner Connecting bus) and free bus transfers when you have a valid Rail Runner ticket purchased in advance online or via mobile app - otherwise pay the driver a $1 fare each way. Official taxi service is available with fares starting at $35 to downtown Albuquerque through companies like ABQ Metro Taxi (505-450-8580) and Aspen Rides (505-388-3692). Ride-sharing via Uber and Lyft requires pre-booking as street hailing is not permitted.
For Santa Fe destinations, Groome Transportation operates 30 daily trips taking 75 minutes with variable pricing, while RoadRunner Charter provides door-to-door service to Santa Fe and Los Alamos areas. The Rail Runner Express connects Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Belen with convenient airport shuttle connections. Recent December 2025 improvements under the ABQ RIDE Forward Network Plan enhanced transit connectivity throughout the metropolitan area.
โ Back to Denver International Airport