Ruth Haines
Denver International Airport (DEN) is the largest airport in the US by land area, serving over 77.8 million passengers in 2023. The airport is known for its art program, which has resulted in a significant number of artworks, including a 32-foot-tall bright blue sculpture of a horse with glowing red eyes, nicknamed Blucifer. The airport has also been the subject of various conspiracy theories, including rumours of secret underground tunnels and allegations that it was built by a secret society. Despite the strange legends surrounding the airport, it offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and amenities for travellers. The airport is easily accessible by road and public transport, with various bus and rail services connecting it to the city of Denver and beyond.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Northeast of the city of Denver |
| Size | 52.4 square miles, more than twice the size of Manhattan |
| Rank | Third-busiest airport in the US by passenger volume |
| Passenger Volume | 77.8 million passengers in 2023 |
| Public Art | A 32-foot-tall bright blue sculpture of a horse with glowing red eyes called "Blue Mustang" or "Blucifer" by artist Luis Jiménez; a pair of gargoyles titled "Notre Denver"; an animated, talking gargoyle; pedestrian bridge with views of the Rocky Mountains and high plains |
| Conspiracy Theories | Lizard people, space aliens, secret underground bunkers, a cursed horse, and connections to the Freemasons, Illuminati, and New World Order |
| Transport Links | A Line rail service between DEN and Denver Union Station; airport express bus service skyRide; commuter routes to Brighton and Aurora; bus services to Fort Collins, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado ski resorts; Amtrak offers a Fly-Rail plan for ticketing with United Airlines for trips into scenic areas in the Western US |
| Parking | Repair work and improvement work impacting West Garage and West Economy from April 1, 2023 |
| Dining Options | Local favorites and popular national names |
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What You'll Learn
- The airport's art installations, including the Blue Mustang statue, also known as Blucifer
- Conspiracy theories about lizard people, the Illuminati, and Freemasons
- The airport's public transportation links, including the A Line rail service and skyRide bus service
- The airport's history, including its opening in 1995 and its status as the largest airport in the US by land area
- The airport's amenities, including shops and restaurants, and the Canine Airport Therapy Squad
The airport's art installations, including the Blue Mustang statue, also known as Blucifer
The Denver International Airport (DIA) is known for its art installations, including the Blue Mustang statue, also known as Blucifer. This 32-foot-tall, 9000-pound sculpture of a blue horse with glowing red eyes is located on Peña Boulevard, just before the airport. The statue was created by New Mexico artist Luis Jiménez and is one of the earliest public art commissions for the airport, initially commissioned by the City of Denver in the mid-1990s.
The Blue Mustang has a haunting history. During its creation, a section of the statue fell on Jiménez, severing an artery in his leg and ultimately leading to his death. Jiménez's family and friends decided to complete the sculpture to honour his legacy. The horse's glowing red eyes, which are a tribute to Jiménez's father, have been a source of fascination and have earned the statue its demonic nickname, Blucifer. The name combines 'Blue' from its official name and 'Lucifer', the archangel who fell from heaven and now rules the underworld.
Blucifer has been the subject of controversy and intrigue, with some locals disparaging its demonic appearance and others praising its uniqueness. The statue's unveiling in February 2008 sparked outspoken distaste, and there were even petitions to have it removed. However, no official request for removal has been made since the end of the mandatory five-year waiting period after its installation. Over time, Blucifer seems to have grown on residents and visitors alike, becoming an iconic part of the airport's landscape.
The Blue Mustang is not the only artwork at Denver International Airport that has sparked interest. The airport is also known for its murals, including "In Peace and Harmony With Nature," which depicts children saddened by the destruction of nature and humanity's efforts to rehabilitate it. Additionally, the airport unveiled an animated, talking gargoyle in 2019, adding to the playful and intriguing atmosphere. Denver's public art program, financed by a mandatory 1% capital improvement budget, has significantly contributed to the airport's unique art collection.
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Conspiracy theories about lizard people, the Illuminati, and Freemasons
Since it opened in the mid-1990s, Denver International Airport has been the subject of numerous conspiracy theories. One of the most pervasive legends is that the airport was built by a secret society, with people speculating that it could be anyone from the Freemasons, the Illuminati, or the New World Order.
The dedication stone at the airport's south entrance is dated March 19, 1994, and features the logo of the Freemasons. It was paid for by two Freemason grand lodges in Colorado and something called the "New World Airport Commission", an organisation about which little is known. Conspiracy theorists argue that the airport is the headquarters for a secretive new world order linked to the Masons or the Illuminati.
Adding to the intrigue are the unusual murals by artist Leo Tanguma, which depict creepy images of man-made environmental destruction and genocide. Conspiracy theorists have seized upon these images, often neglecting to mention that they are part of a four-part series, with the final two murals depicting humanity coming together to live in peace and harmony.
Another source of fascination is the pair of gargoyle statues watching over the airport's baggage claim area. Some believe that these statues, which emerge from open suitcases, are more than just a totem to ward off evil spirits and protect the building. Conspiracy theorists have suggested that they are linked to the Illuminati, with some even claiming that the statues talk and have been known to say things like, "Welcome to Illuminati Headquarters... I mean Denver International Airport."
Underground tunnels and secret buildings discovered beneath the airport have also fuelled speculation. Some believe that these tunnels contain underground bunkers built by, or for, lizard people or alien life forms, which will serve as a safe place for the world's elite during the apocalypse.
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The airport's public transportation links, including the A Line rail service and skyRide bus service
Denver International Airport, also known as DEN or DIA, is located in the city's northeast. It is the largest airport in the US by land area, covering 52.4 square miles. In 2023, the airport served over 77.8 million passengers, making it the third busiest airport in the country by passenger volume.
The Regional Transportation District (RTD) operates the A Line rail service between DEN and Denver Union Station in downtown Denver. The trip takes around 37 minutes, and the service runs approximately every 15 minutes.
RTD also operates the skyRide, an airport express bus service between Arapahoe County or Boulder and DEN. Additionally, RTD route 104L provides an hourly service to Thornton, and there are two commuter routes with a few runs per day: RTD route 145X to Brighton and 169L to Aurora.
Scheduled bus services are also available to destinations such as Fort Collins, and van services extend into neighbouring states like Nebraska, Wyoming, and popular Colorado summer and ski resort areas.
For those looking to travel further afield, Amtrak offers a Fly-Rail plan in conjunction with United Airlines for trips into scenic areas in the Western US with a stopover in Denver.
The airport is conveniently connected to the I-70 and the city of Denver via the Peña Boulevard freeway.
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The airport's history, including its opening in 1995 and its status as the largest airport in the US by land area
Denver International Airport (DEN), often referred to by locals as DIA, is an international airport in the Western United States, serving metropolitan Denver, Colorado, and the greater Front Range Urban Corridor. It is one of the busiest airports in the world, ranking third in 2021 and 2022. In 2023, it was the sixth busiest airport globally and the third busiest in the US, serving around 77.8 million passengers. In 2024, DEN set a new record, serving 82,358,744 passengers.
The airport opened in 1995, replacing the former Stapleton International Airport. From 1980 to 1983, the Denver Regional Council of Governments investigated potential sites for a new airport north and east of Denver. In 1983, Federico Peña was elected mayor of Denver, campaigning to expand Stapleton Airport onto Rocky Mountain Arsenal lands. However, leaders in nearby Adams County threatened to sue over noise concerns. Peña eventually struck a deal: Adams County leaders would support the plan for Denver to annex 54 square miles (140 km2) of the county to build the new airport away from established neighbourhoods. In 1988, Adams County voters approved the annexation. The federal government recognised the importance of a Denver air hub to the national transportation system and contributed $500 million (equivalent to $1.1 billion as of 2023) towards the new airport.
At 33,531 acres (52.4 sq mi; 135.7 km2), DEN is the largest airport in the Western Hemisphere by land area and the second-largest in the world, behind King Fahd International Airport. The airport boasts the longest public-use runway in North America, measuring 16,000 feet (3.03 miles or 4.88 km) in length, making it the seventh-longest runway on Earth. DEN's expansive property is twice the size of Manhattan and larger than the city boundaries of Boston, Miami, or San Francisco.
DEN is known for its award-winning architecture and magnificent views of the Rocky Mountains. The internationally recognised peaked roof of the Jeppesen Terminal, designed by Fentress Bradburn Architects, resembles snow-capped mountains and evokes Colorado's early history when Native American teepees dotted the Great Plains. The terminal features a unique catenary steel cable system, similar to the design of the Brooklyn Bridge, supporting the fabric roof.
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The airport's amenities, including shops and restaurants, and the Canine Airport Therapy Squad
Denver International Airport (DEN) offers a wide range of amenities, shops, and restaurants to cater to the needs of travellers. The airport is known for its unique design, resembling snow-capped mountains, and its extensive public art program, adding to the visual appeal of the airport.
When it comes to amenities, DEN provides a complimentary airport shuttle service that operates seven days a week, making it convenient for passengers to get to and from the airport. Additionally, the Regional Transportation District (RTD) offers efficient rail and bus services, connecting the airport to downtown Denver and surrounding areas. The A Line rail service, for instance, provides a quick 37-minute trip to Denver Union Station, departing every 15 minutes.
For those who enjoy shopping, Denver International Airport offers a diverse selection of stores across concourses A, B, and C. From clothing and accessories to electronics and travel essentials, passengers can browse through brands like Atomicchild, Be Hippy, Björn’s Colorado Honey, and Brookstone. Duty-free shopping is also available, along with options for gifts, souvenirs, jewellery, and convenience items.
The airport also features a variety of dining options, including restaurants, cafes, and quick-service eateries. While specific restaurant details are not readily available, the presence of these dining establishments ensures that travellers can enjoy a meal or a quick bite before their flight.
One unique feature of Denver International Airport is the Canine Airport Therapy Squad, a team of certified therapy dogs that roam the airport to provide comfort and stress relief to passengers. This programme is designed to create a relaxed and positive travel experience, especially for those who may be feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
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Frequently asked questions
Denver International Airport has been a magnet for myths and legends since it opened in 1995. Here are some of the most popular conspiracy theories:
- Lizard people and aliens: Employees have been known to prank the media by wearing lizard masks and drawing aliens on tunnel walls.
- Secret societies: The airport will be used by the New World Order as a prison or concentration camp. The time capsule at the airport showcases an inscribed plaque with the Freemason symbol and the words "New World Airport Commission", leading to conspiracy theories that the airport is linked to the Freemasons and other secret societies.
- Cursed horse: The 32-foot-tall bright blue sculpture of a horse with glowing red eyes, officially titled "Mustang", is known by its demonic-sounding nickname: Blucifer. Many insist that it's cursed and represent one of the steeds that will be ridden by the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.
Here are some interesting facts about the Denver International Airport:
- It's the largest airport in the U.S. by land area, covering 52.4 square miles, more than twice the size of Manhattan.
- It's America's third-busiest airport by passenger volume, serving more than 77.8 million passengers in 2023.
- The Jeppesen Terminal's internationally recognized peaked roof, designed by Fentress Bradburn Architects, resembles snow-capped mountains and evokes the early history of Colorado.
- The Regional Transportation District (RTD) operates the A Line rail service between the airport and Denver Union Station in downtown Denver, making the 37-minute trip approximately every 15 minutes.
The Denver International Airport offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and amenities for a convenient and enjoyable travel experience. It also has a public art program that has resulted in a significant number of artworks, including the Blue Mustang sculpture and the "In Peace and Harmony With Nature" mural. The airport also has a Canine Airport Therapy Squad (CATS) to provide comfort and support to travelers.
The Denver International Airport is located in the city's northeast and is connected to I-70 and Denver via the Peña Boulevard freeway. The Regional Transportation District (RTD) provides various transportation options, including the A Line rail service, the skyRide airport express bus service, and several commuter routes and bus services to nearby areas.
