DENVER — After Tuesday's blizzard forced the cancellation of more than 480 flights at Denver International Airport, operations returned to normal on Wednesday. Passenger traffic was heavier than normal Wednesday as those whose flights were canceled added to the holiday rush.
"I got five kids and a wife, so (getting home) is very important," said Mitchell Ringwood, whose flight out of Aspen was canceled Tuesday. He drove to Denver to get a new flight Wednesday to Springfield, Mo.
The line at the the south security checkpoint was around 30 minutes most of Wednesday morning. The north security checkpoint was typically shorter. Travelers are encouraged to check FlyDenver.com for the latest wait times and other information.
With the ongoing construction of the Great Hall, DIA is also offering some additional resources to help people navigate the airport during the busy holiday season.
There are now arrows on the floor that direct people to security and ticketing. There are also staff members dressed in purple shirts that say "ask me" helping answer questions. DIA encourages travelers to use Level 5 to move between areas of the airport.
Meanwhile, the Transportation Security Administration is reminding people that carry-on liquids still must be less than 3.4 ounces and must fit in a quart-size bag. Passengers must still remove shoes and jackets at security. New technology is helping move people through the body scanner faster because passengers no longer have to lift their arms.
The airport has also relocated its drive-up bag drop to help with convenience. The bag drop is now located on 75th Avenue just outside the Pike’s Peak parking lot. Passengers pull up, check their bags, and even can get boarding passes before ever stopping foot inside the airport.
The service requires you arrive at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight. Passengers can then proceed directly to security, without the need for waiting in line at airline counters.