Denver International Airport (DEN) has cut the ribbon on 16 new gates on Concourse C as part of the airport’s gate expansion programme.
The Mayor of Denver, Michael B. Hancock, joined Denver International Airport (DEN) and Southwest Airlines at the ribbon cutting ceremony. The new gates are being leased by Southwest Airlines to further expand the airline’s operations at DEN.
Mayor Michael B. Hancock said:Denver International Airport is our region’s and Colorado’s largest economic engine, and these investments are critical to keeping that engine running to support our entire city and state. These new gates will bring more flights, jobs and economic opportunities to our region, while making even more destinations accessible for our residents, and making Denver even more accessible to travellers from around the world.
The 530,000 square-foot expansion area includes 16 new gates, 20 passenger waiting areas and additional airline support areas. The concourse also features new passenger amenities such as an outdoor patio, comfortable seating, charging stations, new restrooms, nursing rooms, and pet relief areas. In addition, the expansion has created space for eight new shopping and dining outlets that will open in 2023.
The 16 new gates are part of the DEN’s gate expansion programme, which is constructing 39 new gates across all three concourses, increasing the airport’s gate capacity by 30 percent, while also improving the passenger experience. The C-East expansion is the second of four expansion areas to be completed, with the remaining two areas on Concourses A-West and B-East due to open later this year. These expansion projects support DEN’s Vision 100 mission to welcome 100 million annual passengers.
DEN CEO Phil Washington said:The Gate Expansion Program is just one way we are growing our infrastructure to ensure we are prepared for 100 million passengers in the next 8 to 10 years. These new gates will not only allow one of our largest carriers to expand at DEN but provide our passengers with more options and an improved experience.
The C-East expansion area broke ground in early 2019 and has been managed by the Holder-FCI joint venture. The design reflects DEN’s commitment to sustainability, featuring a rooftop solar system that can generate nearly 355 kilowatts of electricity. Low flow fixtures and toilets are also projected to reduce the facility’s water use by approximately 47 percent.