Traveling through airports can either be a seamless experience or a source of stress, depending on how well you prepare. For those flying with Frontier Airlines through Denver International Airport (DEN), understanding the specifics of the terminal setup is crucial. As Denver is the central hub for Frontier Airlines, this airport sees more Frontier flights than any other in the country. That makes the frontier airlines denver terminal one of the most trafficked and operationally significant terminals in the United States.
If you're planning to travel via Frontier from or to Denver, this extensive guide will break down every aspect of your terminal experience—from how to get there, what to expect at check-in, where to eat, how to board, and what’s coming in the future for this essential travel hub.
For even more details, real-time information, and official updates, visit the official guide for the frontier airlines denver terminal.
frontier airlines and denver: a strong operational partnership
Frontier Airlines and Denver are a match made in aviation heaven. Founded in Denver, Frontier continues to maintain its largest operational base at Denver International Airport. The airline's corporate headquarters are also located nearby, further strengthening this relationship.
What this means for travelers is simple: DEN is optimized for Frontier operations. You’ll find more gate availability, better support services for Frontier passengers, and typically smoother flight connections when traveling with this carrier through Denver.
If you're connecting through Denver with Frontier, you’re in the best possible location in the entire network.
what terminal does frontier use at denver international?
Frontier Airlines operates exclusively out of Concourse A at Denver International Airport. DEN has a unique structure in which the main Jeppesen Terminal leads into three separate concourses (A, B, and C), each accessible via an underground train system or, in the case of Concourse A, via a pedestrian bridge as well.
Here’s how to find your way:
Check-in Counters: Located on Level 6 of the East side of Jeppesen Terminal. That’s where you’ll find Frontier's ticketing area and bag-drop kiosks.
Security Checkpoints:
Bridge Security: Accessible by walking, ideal for reaching Concourse A directly.
North and South Checkpoints: Lead to the underground train system, which stops at Concourse A first.
Frontier Departure Gates: Generally located between A20 and A39, though specific gate assignments change regularly.
arriving early: check-in procedures and best practices
Frontier Airlines is a low-cost carrier, which means that many services—such as baggage check, seat selection, and early boarding—must be purchased separately. For the smoothest experience:
Check in Online: Available 24 hours before departure. This is the fastest, most cost-efficient method.
Use a Self-Service Kiosk: If you need to print a boarding pass or baggage tag.
Bag Drop: Available at the main counter. Be prepared with your prepaid baggage confirmation to speed things up.
Time Recommendations:
2 hours prior to domestic flights
3 hours prior to international flights
Always allow extra time during holidays, weekends, and peak flying hours, which are typically early mornings and late afternoons.
tsa screening and how to choose your checkpoint
Denver International Airport has one of the most efficient TSA setups in the country, but it still pays to know your options.
Bridge Security: Preferred if you’re walking to Concourse A. Generally has shorter lines but fewer TSA PreCheck lanes.
North Security: Large, efficient, and ideal for PreCheck or CLEAR users.
South Security: Similar to North but usually more crowded.
Once you’re through security, you can either walk or take the train to Concourse A. The train runs every few minutes, 24/7.
understanding frontier’s boarding process
Frontier Airlines boards in zones and follows a strict timeline:
Pre-Boarding: People with disabilities, active-duty military, and those traveling with small children.
Zone 1: Priority boarding for Elite members and those who paid for early boarding.
Zones 2–4: Standard boarding, organized by seat assignment.
Boarding typically begins 30–40 minutes before departure and closes 15 minutes before takeoff. If you’re not at the gate by that time, you risk missing your flight—no exceptions.
Pro Tip: Don’t depend on overhead announcements alone. Gate screens and the Frontier app are more reliable and often updated faster.
amenities in concourse a: food, drink, shopping, and relaxation
Despite Frontier’s barebones inflight offerings, Denver International makes up for it with its Concourse A amenities. Here’s what you’ll find while you wait for your flight:
food and beverages:
Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs: A favorite for gourmet hot dogs with a local twist.
Smashburger: Well-known national chain offering burgers and fries.
Cantina Grill: Mexican food for those craving burritos, tacos, or nachos.
Caribou Coffee: Coffee, tea, and snacks for early risers.
Einstein Bros. Bagels: Perfect for breakfast or a quick bite.
shops and essentials:
Hudson News & Books: Grab magazines, drinks, or emergency supplies.
Tech On The Go: Chargers, headphones, and mobile accessories.
Colorado Collection: Souvenirs and locally made gifts.
XpresSpa: Get a relaxing massage or quick nail treatment.
Charging stations, family restrooms, and water bottle refill stations are also scattered throughout the concourse.
accessibility, family services, and special needs assistance
Denver International Airport, including Concourse A, is ADA-compliant and provides services for travelers with various needs:
Wheelchair Assistance: Can be prearranged via Frontier or requested at check-in.
Family Restrooms: Private spaces for parents with small children.
Nursing Rooms: Comfortable, quiet, and private.
Service Animal Relief Areas: Located both before and after security.
Frontier’s customer service team is trained to assist travelers with disabilities or special requirements. Contact them in advance for a more tailored experience.
upon arrival: connecting, baggage claim, and transportation
Landing at DEN on a Frontier flight? Here’s what you need to know:
Arrival Gate: You’ll land in Concourse A.
Connecting Flights: If you’re connecting to another Frontier flight, your next gate will likely be in the same concourse.
Baggage Claim: Take the underground train to Jeppesen Terminal Level 5 (East Side).
Ground Transportation:
RTD Light Rail (A-Line): Direct to downtown Denver’s Union Station.
Ride Shares: Uber and Lyft have designated pickup zones.
Hotel Shuttles: Most local hotels offer courtesy pickups.
Rental Car Shuttles: Depart from outside the Jeppesen Terminal.
Everything is well-marked and easy to navigate, even for first-time visitors.
what’s coming next for the frontier airlines denver terminal?
Denver International Airport is undergoing significant upgrades through its Great Hall Project and concourse expansions. These improvements directly benefit Frontier passengers, especially those flying through Concourse A.
Upcoming enhancements include:
More Gates in Concourse A: Specifically allocated for low-cost carriers like Frontier.
Improved Digital Signage: To make navigation easier.
Expanded Dining Options: More restaurants and grab-and-go selections.
Renovated Seating Areas: With more charging outlets and comfortable zones.
These changes are designed to support the growing number of passengers Frontier is flying out of DEN each year.
final thoughts
The frontier airlines denver terminal is not just a part of Denver International Airport—it is the core of Frontier’s entire national operation. For travelers, this means streamlined flights, consistent boarding processes, and plenty of resources to help make your journey as smooth as possible.
Understanding the terminal layout, using online check-in, planning ahead for baggage and security, and taking advantage of Concourse A's amenities will turn what could be a hectic airport visit into a stress-free experience.
Whether you’re flying for business, leisure, or connecting through the Mile High City, having a solid grasp of the Frontier experience at DEN is the first step toward a successful trip. For maps, updates, and more information, the frontier airlines denver terminal official page is your go-to resource.
