Denver Airport Delays: What You Need To Know

As one of the busiest airports in the world, Denver International Airport (DEN) often experiences delays. On January 3, 2025, the airport experienced general departure and arrival delays due to gate hold and taxi delays of 15 minutes or less. Similarly, on January 5, 2025, the airport faced the same issues, with no destination-specific delays reported. Construction activities near the airport, such as the closure of the off-ramp from inbound Peña Blvd. to Jackson Gap, may also contribute to travel delays. While Denver International Airport boasts impressive architecture, great food, and an automatic ID scanner, it has received criticism for lengthy security wait times and crowded train platforms, which can impact travellers' overall experience and cause delays.

Delays of 15 minutes or less for both arrivals and departures

As of the 5th of January 2025, there are minor delays of 15 minutes or less for both arrivals and departures at Denver International Airport (DEN). These minimal delays are due to gate hold and taxi issues.

Denver International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, and it is the primary economic engine for the state of Colorado, generating over $36 billion for the region each year.

Despite being a large and busy airport, Denver International usually experiences efficient arrival and departure times, with security wait times being the only notable exception. One traveller reports 45-minute security delays, although this is an outlier, and the airport has received praise for its automatic ID scanner.

For up-to-date information on any delays or issues at Denver International Airport, travellers are advised to check the airport's official website and social media channels, as well as the websites of their chosen airline and local travel advisories.

Construction at Jackson Gap and 75th Ave. causing detours

Construction work at Jackson Gap and 75th Ave. is causing detours near Denver International Airport. The existing off-ramp from inbound Peña Boulevard to Jackson Gap is closed for construction. A temporary off-ramp is available, but construction activity in the area may cause travel impacts. Drivers are urged to use the 75th Avenue off-ramp, located west of the Jackson Gap Street off-ramp, and follow detour signs for Jackson Gap Street.

During this phase of the project, westbound traffic on 75th Avenue from Jackson Gap is prohibited. Detour routes are in place, and signs have been posted. Drivers on Jackson Gap will not be able to travel westbound on 75th Avenue to the Pikes Peak shuttle lot. To access the Pikes Peak shuttle lot from the Terminal, drivers will need to exit Peña at Jackson Gap and travel north on Jackson Gap to westbound 78th Avenue. They must then proceed to southbound Gun Club Road.

The construction is part of the airport's Peña Phase 1B project, which includes the reconstruction of Peña Boulevard and the widening of Peña Boulevard bridges over Jackson Gap Street. This will make travel to events on Peña Boulevard easier and reduce costs for pavement maintenance. The project also includes the construction of new direct connect ramps from both East and West Terminals to New Castle Street and 78th Avenue to meet the needs of rental car companies and ground transportation.

The work is expected to last through mid-November. The new design will allow traffic to cross to the opposite side of the road, improving safety and efficiency.

Security wait times

As of the 5th of January 2025, the FAA's Air Traffic Control System Command Center is reporting that Denver International Airport is experiencing general departure delays of 15 minutes or less due to gate hold and taxi delays. Similarly, arrival traffic is experiencing airborne delays of 15 minutes or less.

One traveller reports that security at Denver International Airport needs to be improved, as it took them almost 45 minutes to get through, despite about 15 lanes being open and processing passengers.

Another traveller reports that the process of getting out of the airport can be cramped, as everyone is dumped onto one platform by one train. They also report that the trains have malfunctioned in the past.

Denver International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world and is the primary economic engine for the state of Colorado, generating over $36 billion for the region annually.

Train transportation issues

As of the 5th of January 2025, the Denver International Airport (DEN) is experiencing some minor delays. According to the FAA's Air Traffic Control System Command Center, there are general departure delays, with gate hold and taxi delays of 15 minutes or less. Similarly, arrival traffic is facing airborne delays of 15 minutes or less.

The train is the primary means of transportation within the airport, and any issues with it can have a significant impact on the overall travel experience. Passengers who miss their stop or need to backtrack may face challenges, as it is unclear if they can remain onboard if they miss their stop. This lack of clarity adds to the confusion and frustration of travellers, especially those who are unfamiliar with the airport layout.

In addition to train malfunctions, construction activities around the airport can also contribute to travel delays. For example, the ongoing construction at Jackson Gap and 75th Ave. has led to detours and impacted travel routes to and from the airport. These detours may cause further delays for passengers, especially those who are unfamiliar with the alternative routes.

To mitigate the impact of train transportation issues at Denver International Airport, it is advisable for passengers to allow for extra travel time when using the train system. Keeping updated with the latest airport and train status information can help travellers anticipate potential delays and make alternative arrangements if necessary. Additionally, exploring alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing services or airport shuttles, can provide travellers with more flexibility and potentially reduce the impact of train-related delays.

Weather conditions

On December 29, 2024, Denver International Airport was experiencing significant delays, with the status reported as "DELAY STATUS SIGNIFICANT and decreasing". This can be attributed to the windy conditions, as mentioned in a review from the same day, which stated that the airport was "very windy", which was the reason for a loss of a star in their rating. Wind can impact flight operations, causing delays or even cancellations if conditions become hazardous.

Moving into the new year, on January 3, 2025, the airport was experiencing minor delays. Both departure and arrival traffic were facing gate hold, taxi, and airborne delays of 15 minutes or less. These delays can be attributed to a range of factors, including weather conditions, air traffic congestion, or other operational issues.

The most recent update, from January 5, 2025, indicates that the minor delays from two days prior persisted. While no specific cause for these delays was mentioned, weather conditions can often play a role, especially during winter when snow, ice, and strong winds are more prevalent.

Denver International Airport is known for its variable weather, and while it may cause occasional delays, the airport operates efficiently, ensuring that any disruptions are minimised. It is always advisable to check the latest weather reports and airport updates before travelling to stay informed about potential delays or cancellations.

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