Today was an important day for United Airlines and the Denver International Airport. The airport completed its final two major concourses that were part of a four-year program that added 39 gates.

Exponential growth

Since the Denver International Airport was opened 27 years ago, the Gate Expansion Program that added 39 new gates was the most significant expansion in airport history. On Friday, the airport and United held a ceremony to celebrate the completion and opening of the new gates.

"The completion of the Gate Expansion Program continues to position DEN as one of the top international airports while solidifying our partnership with United Airlines." Phil Washington, CEO, Denver International Airport

Last month, United began using new gates at the east end of the B concourse. The concourse features seven gates and expanded replacements for gates that previously served smaller aircraft.

Close

Concourse A received an expansion of 530,000 square feet, featuring 12 new gates, new gate areas at many gates, and a new United Club being built.

United President Brett Hart was present at the event and praised the airport's growth mindset.

"We expect over the next several years to increase our employee base from 8,000 to 11,000. And that is an indication of not only our commitment

Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock was also present at the event.

"Denver International Airport continues to strive toward effectively serving 100 million annual passengers within the next 10 years. The opening of these new expansion areas is significant for the airport's future. Not only is there are brand-new facility with 10 gates at the end of Concourse B East, six of the 12 new gates on Concourse A West can accommodate international flights bringing more visitors, opportunities and economic growth to our region." Mayor Hancock

Recent Denver International Airport news

In September, Denver International Airport received a Guinness World Record for the world's largest airport animal therapy program. DEN's Canine Airport Therapy Squad (CATS) has become well known.

The CATS program is currently made up of 84 animals, including 33 different dog breeds. In 2015, the program began with just 28 animals. Over 1,250 volunteer hours have been invested in the program this year. On September 15, a ceremony was held at the Jeppesen Terminal in Denver to receive the award. The record will appear in next year's Guinness World Record Book.