Denver International Airport and the Transportation Security Administration are bracing for a busy Thanksgiving holiday travel season this year.
From Friday, Nov. 22 to Monday, Dec. 2, TSA in a news release said it expects to screen more than 844,033 passengers through DIA checkpoints, a 7.5% increase from 2023.
The three busiest days at the Denver airport during the Thanksgiving travel period are projected to be Friday, Nov. 22, and Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, the Saturday and Sunday following Thanksgiving.
Both airport and TSA officials have several ways they’ve prepared for the influx of passengers and recommendations for planning ahead.
Travelers are advised to arrive at the airport two hours ahead of their scheduled boarding time. There is the potential for longer security lines, especially during peak times, which are 3 a.m. to 4:30 a.m., 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The Pikes Peak and Longs Peak shuttle lots are available at $8 a day. Longs Peak shuttle lot will be open from 3 a.m. to 7 p.m. Nov. 27 or until the lot is filled. Pikes Peak will be closed during this time and reopen once Longs Peak is closed.
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There are also 36 electric vehicle charging stations available at no extra charge than standard parking rates on Level 1 of the parking garages.
Parking lots fill up quickly during the holiday season, according to the release. The RTD A-line into the airport is another option for travelers looking to avoid parking logistics.
Passengers in need of a wheelchair should reserve one at least 48 hours in advance. For additional accessibility assistance, travelers can reach out to DIA’s customer service team by calling 720-730-4359.
Passengers can also check parking lot capacities and security wait times at FlyDenver.com.
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