Denver Airport's Light Rail: An Efficient Travel Option

Getting to and from Denver International Airport is easy thanks to the Regional Transportation District's (RTD) A Line, which connects the airport to downtown Denver. The A Line, which first opened in 2016, takes travellers to Denver Union Station, the city's transportation hub, in approximately 37 minutes. From Union Station, travellers can access additional local and regional transportation services, including light rail, buses, Amtrak rail service, and taxis. The A Line is also easily accessible for travellers with luggage, offering level boarding and storage options such as overhead compartments and designated luggage towers.

The A Line train

The A Line offers a convenient and affordable travel option, with a set fare of $10 for a one-way trip between the airport and Denver Union Station. This station, located at 1701 Wynkoop St, serves as the city's transportation hub, offering connections to various other transportation services, including light rail, regional and local buses, Amtrak, taxis, and free shuttles. The station is housed in a beautiful 1914 Beaux-Arts building, surrounded by restaurants, bars, shops, and the boutique hotel, The Crawford Hotel.

The A Line is part of the larger Eagle P3 project, which also encompasses the G Line and the first segment of the B Line. The development of the A Line began with an investment study in 1997 and gained momentum through partnerships and funding from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). The line officially opened in 2016, with quiet zones established along the corridor in 2019.

Cost and ticketing

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) offers a range of ticketing options for those looking to use the A Line to travel between Denver International Airport and Denver Union Station. The standard fare for a single journey is $10, with discounts available.

The RTD has introduced a new fare system that includes lower fares, a reduced number of fare zones, and decreased costs for 3-Hour, Day, and Monthly Passes. The new system also offers an Airport Day Pass, which is valid for all RTD trains and buses within the greater Denver metro area for a 24-hour period and can be purchased for $10.

For those looking to make multiple journeys, the RTD offers a range of pass options, including:

• 3-Hour Pass: Valid for 3 hours after validation.
• Day Pass: Valid for the entire service day.
• Monthly Pass: Valid for the entire month across the system, including the airport.

The RTD also offers discounted fares for seniors aged 65+, individuals with disabilities, Medicare recipients, and customers enrolled in LiVE. Additionally, active-duty members of the U.S. military can ride for free on all RTD services with proof of eligibility.

Tickets and passes can be purchased through the RTD MyRide mobile app, which allows users to scan and ride using their MyRide mobile barcode. The app also offers the convenience of buying tickets and passes in advance for future travel. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased at ticket vending machines located at rail line platforms, inside the airport, at Union Station, or at any RTD sales outlet.

Luggage and accessibility

The Denver International Airport (DEN) is one of the most accessible airports in the world, with a range of services and facilities to assist passengers with disabilities or special needs. The airport is served by the A Line commuter train, which provides a direct link to the heart of downtown Denver. The A Line is fully accessible, with features such as:

All stations and trains are wheelchair-accessible, with level boarding at all platforms.

Stations and travel time

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) operates the A Line commuter rail service, connecting Denver International Airport (DEN) to downtown Denver. The A Line is not part of the Denver Light Rail system but is a separate commuter rail line. It is, however, accessible from the light rail system, with connections at Union Station.

The A Line commuter rail has eight stations in total, including the airport and Union Station. The stations are:

• 40th Ave & Airport Blvd – Gateway Park
• Union Station, Denver
• 38th & Blake St
• 61st & Pena Station
• Denver Airport Station
• Thornton East Side
• Nine Mile Station
• 104th Ave / Revere

The 23-mile journey between the airport and Union Station takes approximately 37 minutes and costs $10 each way. The A Line operates from 3:15 am to 1:00 or 1:30 am, with varying intervals of 15 and 30 minutes throughout the day.

The A Line has a daily schedule with different timings on different days of the week. From Monday to Thursday, trains run every 15 minutes from 3:15 am to 6:30 pm, and every 30 minutes from 6:30 pm to 12:30 am or 1:00 am. On Fridays and Saturdays, the train operates every 15 minutes from 3:15 am to 6:00 pm, and every 30 minutes from 6:00 pm to 1:00 am. The schedule is slightly different on Sundays, with trains running every 30 minutes from 4:15 am to 6:30 pm, and every 15 minutes from 6:30 pm to 1:00 am.

Alternative transport options

Denver International Airport (DEN) is a major airline hub in the United States. The airport is easily accessible by rail, bus, taxi, and car. Here are some alternative transport options to get to and from the airport:

Airport Rail Line (A Line)

The A Line is a convenient and affordable way to travel between the airport and downtown Denver. The rail line opened on April 22, 2016, and offers a seamless connection to the heart of the city at Denver Union Station. The A Line has six stops between the airport and Union Station, and the 23-mile ride takes approximately 37 minutes. The service is provided by the Regional Transportation District (RTD), Denver's public transit provider. The cost is $10 each way, and trains depart every 15 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes outside of those hours.

SkyRide Bus Service

The SkyRide buses offered by RTD are designed with the needs of passengers with luggage in mind. These buses provide ample storage options, including under-seat, overhead compartments, and roomy under-coach bins for larger items. SkyRide drivers are also available to assist with loading and unloading luggage. Bus fares vary depending on the origin and destination of the trip.

Taxi and Rideshare Services

Denver offers a range of taxi and rideshare options for travellers arriving at or departing from the airport. These services provide a convenient and flexible way to get to your destination.

Limousine and Motorcoach Services

For those seeking a more luxurious or group transportation option, limousine and motorcoach services are available at the airport. These services can be booked in advance and provide a comfortable and stylish way to travel.

Rental Car Companies

Various rental car companies operate at Denver International Airport, allowing travellers to rent a car upon arrival. This option provides independence and flexibility for those who prefer to drive themselves.

Commercial Shuttle Service

Commercial shuttle services are also available at the airport, providing shared transportation to and from the airport. These shuttles typically serve popular destinations and can be a cost-effective option.

Denver International Airport and the surrounding area offer a variety of transportation options to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you choose the airport rail line, bus, taxi, or another alternative, you can easily navigate your way to and from the airport.

Frequently asked questions