Denver Airport gets 17 new security lanes — here's what you need to know

If your travel plans include a stop in the Mile High City, you might want to listen up: Denver International Airport (DEN) has a brand-new security area.

The airport and the Transportation Security Administration officially opened 17 all-new security lanes Tuesday as part of what's now called the West Security Checkpoint.

The 17 new lanes feature the latest TSA screening technology, including the second-generation ID verification system (that takes a temporary photo of you to authenticate your ID), automated screening lanes, advanced body scanners and much more.

In total, Denver will be home to 44 TSA screening lanes, though not all of them will operate at all times.

The new West Security Checkpoint joins the existing checkpoints in the south of the terminal and along the passenger bridge to the A gates. All checkpoints lead to all gates, meaning you can choose your own adventure, so to speak.

You can view live security wait times by visiting the airport's website.

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Savvy travelers departing from the A gates (mostly used by Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines and some United Airlines flights) should use the security lanes on the passenger bridge to walk directly to their gate without taking the underground train. (Note that TSA PreCheck isn't available in this area.)

All B and C gates (as well as airport lounges) are accessible from the underground train after passing through security.

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There are three entrances to the new West Security Checkpoint. One is for general screening, another is for premium passengers and those who signed up for the DEN Reserve system, and a third is for TSA PreCheck passengers and those with Clear memberships.

The new checkpoint replaces the existing security area on the north side of the terminal, which permanently closes in conjunction with the opening of the new lanes.

The airport has been testing the new security lanes over the past few days.

In fact, I was at the airport over the weekend and heard mixed reactions to the new security area. Some travelers appreciated that the entire security area is now reinforced with bulletproof glass (something that the North Security area lacked). Others shared frustrations about how slow the new machines seemed to process bags.

Either way, this new security checkpoint is just one of the many upgrades that have come to DEN over the past few years.

This includes 39 new gates, expanding the airport's capacity by 30%. The new gates offer a big passenger experience upgrade with modernized signage, nicer bathrooms and even outdoor terraces with fire pits.

The landside Great Hall, which all departing passengers must visit before their flight, is also getting modernized with new check-in areas, updated wayfinding, and new retail and dining options.

Denver is also home to a slew of new lounges, including a Capital One Lounge, an American Airlines Admirals Club and two new United Clubs — one of which is the largest in the entire network.

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