It’s no secret that Denver International Airport is one of the largest and busiest hubs in the world. For a first-time visitor, the “tents” of the Jeppesen Terminal can feel as intimidating as they are beautiful. If you’re worried about getting lost or missing your flight due to the airport’s ongoing construction, don’t panic. From finding your airline’s specific wing (East or West) to understanding when to use the self-service kiosks, we have mapped out exactly what to expect.
Here is everything you need to know about check-in at DEN Airport so you can navigate the terminal without stress.
Understanding DEN Airport Check-In At Length
You can enjoy a smooth and stress-free departure from Denver International Airport (DEN). Please follow the recommended check-in and arrival times. Getting to the airport early helps you avoid long queues and last-minute stress. Additionally, you will have ample time to clear security and reach your gate comfortably before boarding begins.
Domestic Flights:
Make sure you give yourself plenty of cushion! You must arrive at least 2 hours before boarding starts. Keep an eye on the clock for check-in: airlines usually need you squared away 45 minutes before departure if you are checking bags, or 30 minutes if you’re traveling light with just a backpack.
International Flights:
When you book an international flight, arrive at the airport at least 3 hours early. This gives you plenty of time for security and paperwork. Just remember, you usually can’t check in once there’s less than 60-90 minutes left before takeoff.
Peak Travel:
During the holidays or ski season, you should add an extra 30-60 minutes due to DEN’s high passenger volume.
Find Information About the Check-in and Ticket Counter Locations At DEN Airport
Navigating Denver International Airport (DEN) can feel like a long walk because it is one of the largest airports in the country. However, if you know your terminal, gate area, and level before you arrive, your journey becomes much easier. With a little planning, you can quickly find check-in counters, security wait times, baggage claim, and transportation options without stress.
The following is a neatly arranged guide to check-in locations, curbside check-in availability, and concourses-
| Airline | Ticket Terminal & Directions | Curbside Check-in? | Concourse | Phone # |
| Aer Lingus | Level 5, Center – 21 | Yes | A | (800) 474-7424 |
| Aeromexico | Level 5, Center – 20 | Yes | A | (800) 237-6639 |
| Air Canada | Level 5, Center – 20 | Yes | A | (800) 247-2262 |
| Air France | Level 5, Center – 23 | Yes | A | (800) 237-2747 |
| Alaska Airlines | Level 5, Center – 21 | Yes | A | (800) 252-7522 |
| Allegiant | Level 5, Center – 21 | Yes | A | (702) 505-8888 |
| American Airlines | Level 5, Center – 22 | Yes | C | (800) 433-7300 |
| Breeze Airways | Level 5, Center – 20 | Yes | A | (501) 273-3931 |
| British Airways | Level 5, Center – 22 | Yes | A | (800) AIRWAYS |
| Cayman Airways | Level 5, Center – 20 | Yes | A | (800) 422-9626 |
| Contour Airlines | Level 5, Center – 21 | Yes | C | (888) 332-6686 |
| Copa Airlines | Level 5, Center – 20 | Yes | A | (800) 359-2672 |
| Delta Air Lines | Level 5, Center – 23 | Yes | A | (800) 221-1212 |
| Denver Air Connection | Level 5, Center – 21 | Yes | C | (855) 235-9322 |
| Edelweiss | Level 5, Center – 20 | Yes | A | (669) 272-1225 |
| Frontier Airlines | Level 6, East – 2 | Yes | A | (801) 401-9000 |
| Icelandair | Level 5, Center – 20 | Yes | A | (800) 223-5500 |
| JetBlue Airways | Level 5, Center – 21 | Yes | A | (800) 538-2583 |
| Lufthansa | Level 5, Center – 20 | Yes | A | (800) 645-3880 |
| Southwest Airlines | Level 6, East – 1 | Yes | C | (800) 435-9792 |
| Sun Country Airlines | Level 5, Center – 20 | Yes | A | (651) 905-2737 |
| Turkish Airlines | Level 5, Center – 20 | Yes | A | (800) 874-8875 |
| United Airlines | Level 6, West – 7/8 | Yes | A, B | (800) 864-8331 |
| Viva Aerobus | Level 5, Center – 22 | Yes | A | (866) 359-8482 |
| Volaris | Level 5, Center – 20 | Yes | A | (855) 865-2747 |
| WestJet | Level 5, Center – 23 | Yes | A | (888) 937-8538 |
What Check-in Options are available at DEN Airport?
Denver International Airport’s tented roof is iconic, and its check-in process is simple once you find your way. Due to construction on the Great Hall Project, airline counters may be relocated.
To save time and avoid confusion, you can check the airport’s interactive map online before you head to the terminal.
Ticket Counters:
At Denver International Airport, full-service check-in is available at airline ticket counters on Levels 5 and 6. The exact location depends on whether your airline operates from the East or West side. Here, their experienced staff can assist with tickets, baggage drop-off, seat changes, and any travel-related questions requiring immediate attention.
Self-Service Kiosks:
Want to beat the crowds? Most airlines offer easy-to-use kiosks in the terminal that serve as a fast-track alternative to the ticket counter. You can follow these steps mentioned below-
- Simply follow the clear on-screen prompts to view your flight details.
- Print your own boarding passes and luggage tags in just a few seconds.
- Once your checked bags are tagged, you can usually drop them off at a designated “Express Drop” area and proceed to security. If you only have carry-ons that makes your task easier.
Curbside Check-In:
If you are lugging heavy bags, head straight to Level 6 (Departures) for curbside check-in. It’s a huge time-saver that lets you drop your luggage before you even step inside the terminal. Please double-check with your airline, as not every carrier offers this perk.
Mobile/Online Check-In:
If you want to make your trip through Denver International even easier, then choose online check-in. Most airlines there offer convenient digital check-in options. Just hop online or use your airline’s app a full day before you depart. You can pick your seat and save your boarding pass to your phone in seconds. This saves a lot of time.
Get Through DEN Security Faster with DEN Reserve:
If you hate waiting in line at Denver International Airport, you should try DEN Reserve. You can reserve a spot in the security line for free! It provides a set timeframe to go through, so you spend less time waiting and more time relaxing at your gate.
What Is DEN Reserve?
DEN Reserve is a free, appointment-based service designed to speed up the security process. Instead of standing in a long general line, you reserve a time slot and head to a designated TSA checkpoint. It’s available daily from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. for flights departing between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. The goal? Keep passenger flow smooth and reduce stress, especially during busy travel hours.
Where to Find It?
You will find it at West Security 2, Level 6. You will find it just north of the United Airlines ticket counters. Spot the logo for DEN Reserve close to Entrance 2, or use the airport’s interactive map for step-by-step directions.
How to Use DEN Reserve?
Getting started is simple:
Make Your Reservation: You can book your time slot up to 14 days before your flight or even after you arrive at the airport (if space is available). Just remember, spots are limited!
Enter Your Travel Details: Provide your airline, destination, flight number, number of travelers, and contact information. Once confirmed, you will receive a QR code.
Arrive on Time: If you have checked bags, drop them off first. Then head to West Security 2 and arrive within 15 minutes of your appointment time.
Show Your QR Code: Present your confirmation QR code to the DEN Reserve staff.
Breeze Through TSA: After that, you will go through screening in the dedicated lane—quick and easy.
Need More Information? Contact Denver International Airport’s Team
Concerns about check-in can be handled quickly with the right guidance. When you know where to go and what to expect, navigating the terminal becomes simple. For up-to-date details on DEN reserve or boarding pass assistance, contact Denver International Airport staff. Their support helps you save time and relax before boarding.
See their contact details below and visit the official website for more information.
| DEN Airport Customer Support | (720) 730-IFLY (4359) |
| Text or Video Chat | (720) 902-9351 |
| info@flydenver.com | |
| Official Website | https://www.flydenver.com/ |
Final Thoughts:
As you know, Denver International Airport (DEN) is the largest airport in North America by land area, which means “getting there early” isn’t just a suggestion. it’s a survival strategy. Read this guide carefully, understand the layout of the East and West wings, and arrive within the recommended 2- to 3-hour window. You can also utilize modern tools like DEN Reserve to transform a potentially stressful experience into a seamless journey.
FAQs:
You should arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight or 3 hours before an international one to ensure you have enough time for security.
Check-in counters are located on Levels 5 and 6 of the Jeppesen Terminal. Most airlines are concentrated on Level 5 (Center), while major carriers like United, Southwest, and Frontier have dedicated spaces on Level 6.
No! It’s totally free for everyone, and you don’t even need to sign up for an account.
In most cases, you can select or change your seat during online or kiosk check-in, depending on availability.
Online check-in is best if you want to skip lines and select your seat, especially when traveling with just a carry-on. However, use the airport counter only if you have oversized bags or need assistance from a staff member; be aware of any extra fees.