For travelers flying in or out of Denver with Frontier Airlines, understanding the ins and outs of the frontier airlines denver terminal is essential. Denver International Airport (DEN), the largest airport in the United States by land area, serves as the main hub for Frontier Airlines. While it offers unparalleled connections and convenient access to a variety of destinations, its sheer size and layout can be overwhelming—especially for first-time flyers. This blog serves as your in-depth guide to navigating every aspect of the from check-in and security to dining, shopping, and departure.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first flight, this comprehensive post will ensure you’re fully prepared to make the most of your journey through Denver International Airport with Frontier Airlines.
Introduction to Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International Airport, also known as DEN, ranks as one of the busiest airports in the United States. Located about 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver, it’s a major hub for both domestic and international flights. Designed for scalability and future growth, DEN features a central terminal—the Jeppesen Terminal—connected to three satellite concourses: A, B, and C.
Frontier Airlines operates primarily from Concourse A, which can be accessed by either a pedestrian bridge or the airport’s automated train system. With more than 100 routes offered by Frontier from this location, DEN serves as the airline's epicenter for operations and innovation.
Getting to the frontier airlines denver terminal
Public Transit
One of the most convenient ways to reach the airport is via the RTD A-Line commuter rail from Union Station in downtown Denver. The ride takes approximately 37 minutes and drops you off directly at the airport terminal.
Driving and Parking
If you’re driving to the airport, you’ll find a variety of parking options—from economy lots to valet services. Garage parking offers proximity to the terminal and is ideal for short trips, while the Pikes Peak and Mount Elbert shuttle lots provide affordable long-term parking.
Rideshare and Drop-Off
Uber, Lyft, and local taxis are available and operate from designated zones near the Jeppesen Terminal.
Once you arrive, head toward Concourse A to begin your check-in and boarding process with Frontier Airlines.
Check-In Options for Frontier Passengers
Frontier Airlines offers several convenient check-in methods to streamline your travel:
Online Check-In: Begins 24 hours before departure and allows passengers to confirm their booking, pay for baggage, and select a seat.
Mobile App: Ideal for tech-savvy travelers who want digital boarding passes and travel updates.
Self-Service Kiosks: Located within the terminal, these are perfect for printing boarding passes and baggage tags.
Ticket Counters: Staffed counters are available for those needing assistance with special accommodations, ID verification, or last-minute fees.
Frontier encourages passengers to check in online to avoid wait times and save on baggage fees. Remember to check your gate assignment and boarding time to avoid delays.
Baggage Policy and Fees
Being a low-cost carrier, Frontier Airlines maintains a fee-based structure for most services beyond the base fare. Here's what you need to know:
Personal Item: Free (must fit under the seat in front of you)
Carry-On Bag: Comes with an added fee; discounted when purchased online
Checked Baggage: Fees vary based on weight, route, and when you purchase the service
Ensure that your bags meet size and weight restrictions to avoid additional charges at the gate. Baggage drop is located at the check-in area in the Jeppesen Terminal, adjacent to the entrance to Concourse A.
Security Checkpoints at DEN
Denver International Airport is known for its efficient yet thorough TSA procedures. There are three primary security checkpoints:
North Security Checkpoint: Open 24/7
South Security Checkpoint: Offers standard and TSA PreCheck lanes
Bridge Security Checkpoint: Located on the pedestrian bridge to Concourse A
The bridge checkpoint often has shorter lines and is a great alternative if you're heading to Concourse A. CLEAR and TSA PreCheck lanes are available at all three checkpoints for travelers enrolled in those programs.
Inside Concourse A: Amenities and Services
Once you pass security, you’ll arrive in Concourse A, home to most of Frontier Airlines' departure gates. This concourse offers a wide range of passenger amenities, including restaurants, retail shops, relaxation areas, and tech-friendly seating.
Dining Options
Cantina Grill – Delicious Mexican fare for a quick and satisfying bite
Elway’s – Upscale American cuisine named after NFL legend John Elway
Root Down DIA – A trendy farm-to-table concept with sustainable food options
Einstein Bros. Bagels – Perfect for breakfast or a snack on the go
Snarf’s Sandwiches – A Colorado staple known for hearty sandwiches
Shopping
Hudson News – Grab books, snacks, and travel essentials
Spirit of the Red Horse – Unique gifts and Native American art
Tech on the Go – Cables, chargers, and travel gadgets for last-minute needs
Other Services
Free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the concourse
Ample charging stations and workspaces
Nursing rooms and family restrooms
Massage chairs and spa kiosks
Boarding Procedures with Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines uses a zone-based boarding system. Your boarding group (Zone 1 through Zone 5) will be printed on your boarding pass.
Tips for boarding:
Arrive at your gate at least 45 minutes before your flight
Listen to announcements for your boarding group
Have your ID and boarding pass ready
Be prepared for ramp boarding in some cases, which means boarding the plane directly from the tarmac
Frontier’s minimalist approach means fewer frills but faster boarding times. Gates for Frontier flights typically range between A30 and A50 within Concourse A.
Arrival at the frontier airlines denver terminal
If you’re arriving in Denver on a Frontier Airlines flight, you’ll disembark at Concourse A. From there, take either the automated people mover or the pedestrian bridge to the Jeppesen Terminal. Baggage claim is located on Level 5, where signs will guide you to the appropriate carousel.
Once you collect your luggage, you’ll have access to:
Ground Transportation: Buses, taxis, rideshare pickups, and hotel shuttles
RTD Rail: Quick access to downtown Denver via the A-Line
Rental Cars: A shuttle will take you from the terminal to the Rental Car Center
Tips for a Seamless Experience
To make the most of your trip through the frontier airlines denver terminal, keep these insider tips in mind:
Check in early to avoid long lines and last-minute fees
Travel light to skip baggage drop and boarding delays
Use the pedestrian bridge for quicker security clearance during peak hours
Bring your own snacks and water bottle, especially for early morning flights
Use the mobile app for real-time updates and digital boarding passes
Looking Ahead: Terminal Enhancements and Future Plans
Denver International Airport is currently undergoing a massive expansion and modernization effort to better serve its growing passenger base. These improvements are directly impacting the frontier airlines denver terminal by:
Increasing gate capacity in Concourse A
Adding new dining and retail options
Enhancing seating areas with tech features like wireless charging
Improving sustainability through energy-efficient lighting and waste reduction
These developments promise a more comfortable and convenient experience for all Frontier Airlines passengers in the years to come.
Conclusion
Whether you’re heading out on a business trip, planning a vacation, or returning home, knowing how to navigate the can make your entire travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. From easy access to Concourse A and streamlined check-in options to delicious dining choices and modern amenities, this terminal is well-equipped to handle the needs of today’s savvy traveler.
