Denver Airport opens second advanced security checkpoint and reopens Concourse A walkway for travellers

Credit: Denver International Airport

Denver International Airport (DEN) has celebrated the completion of its second new state-of-the-art security checkpoint. U.S. Representative Diana DeGette, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) representatives, and design and construction personnel joined the event. The East Security Checkpoint, located on Level 6 directly across from the West Security Checkpoint, officially opens at 3 a.m. on 5 August, along with the walkway to Concourse A.

Mayor Mike Johnston said, “We know that for many, DEN is the first and last impression of our city. With this state-of-the-art checkpoint, we’re ensuring that everyone feels welcomed, protected and ready for their journey. The new East Security Checkpoint is an investment in infrastructure and in the experience of every traveller who passes through our airport.”

From 5 August, all security checkpoints will be on the north end of Level 6, opposite the Hotel and Transit Centre. The South Security Checkpoint will close permanently. The walkway to Concourse A will reopen for both departing and arriving passengers. Departing passengers must clear security before using the walkway, while arriving passengers will exit through automated lanes to either the east or west and use elevators at door 600 (west) or 601 (east) for baggage claim and ground transport on Level 5.

The East and West Security Checkpoints, built under the Great Hall Programme, each have 17 screening lanes featuring the latest technology to enhance safety and speed up screening. They cater to standard screening, TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and CLEAR with PreCheck passengers. Passengers can access both checkpoints at the north end of Level 6 near airline counters. Those dropped off on Level 6 West should use doors 606-600, with TSA PreCheck near doors 602 and 600. On Level 6 East, use doors 601-605, with TSA PreCheck near doors 601 and 603. Both checkpoints will operate daily from 3 a.m. to 1 a.m.

There are three designated entrances:

• East/West Security 1: standard screening passengers (the majority of DEN passengers)

• East/West Security 2: restricted access, including CLEAR without PreCheck, premium access, passengers with accessibility needs, military, and DEN Reserve (West only)

• East/West Security 3: TSA PreCheck passengers and CLEAR customers with TSA PreCheck

U.S. Representative Diana DeGette said, “Denver International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world and this new, state-of-the-art security checkpoint helps ensure we stay ahead of the curve and ready to meet the needs of millions of travellers. Congratulations to the entire DEN team and everyone who made this critical project a reality. I look forward to seeing this hub continue to grow and serve as a gateway to all that Colorado has to offer.”

The reopening of the walkway to Concourse A means departing and arriving passengers can once again avoid the train if they wish, offering a more efficient experience. Those travelling to Concourses B or C can still take the train using the main escalators or lifts to the Level 4 platform.

Phil Washington, DEN CEO, stated, “The opening of the East Security Checkpoint and the return of the walkway to Concourse A mark an important milestone in the revitalisation of DEN’s Jeppesen Terminal. All of our passengers will now get to benefit from the new state-of-art checkpoints, improving their travel experience through DEN. With this opening, Coloradans, and travellers from all over the world, are seeing DEN’s Great Hall take shape – creating a beautiful space for those travelling to and from the Mile High City.”

The new TSA screening equipment allows multiple passengers to load bins simultaneously, enhancing efficiency. Passengers can leave liquids and laptops in their bags and keep shoes on, even without TSA PreCheck. Bags flagged for prohibited items are automatically diverted, minimising delays. Other features include automatic bin returns, larger bins, RFID tags for property tracking, and cameras linking photographic images to X-ray scans.

To help passengers adapt to the new process:

• Keep a REAL ID or other acceptable ID ready when approaching document check

• Choose any open station at a lane to prepare items for screening

• Place all items, including suitcases and backpacks, into bins and layer lighter items at the bottom

• Do not remove bins from the belt, as they return automatically

The East Security Checkpoint is part of phase two of the £2.1 billion Great Hall Programme, completed five months ahead of schedule and £10 million under budget. The entire programme is set to finish by the end of 2027, with milestones along the way. The next phase will open eight new standard lanes on the north end of Level 5 in late summer 2026, located near International Arrivals to simplify connections. Additional escalators and stairs will also open to improve access to baggage claim and ground transport.

Passengers can learn more or sign up for updates by visiting the Great Hall Project page.

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