The opening of the Westin Denver International Airport hotel and several new concessions outlets, and the addition of an outdoor plaza for arts and entertainment are just a few ways Denver International (DEN) is celebrating its 20th year in business.
It was Feb. 28, 1995, when DEN opened its doors to the public. It was then, city and airport officials say, recognized around the world for its tented roof structure and technologically advanced operations. Over the past two decades, the airport has established itself as the region’s No. 1 economic driver and job creator, they say.
“DEN is a jewel in the nation’s aviation system, serving as the front door to our entire region for tens of millions of people every year,” says Mayor Michael B. Hancock. “With 32 consecutive months of growing international traffic, bolstered by new non-stop flights to Tokyo, Panama City and other major destinations, DEN is a gateway to the world – with abundance potential for the future.”
In the past 20 years, the airport has gone from serving 31 million passengers in 1995 to 53.4 million in 2014. It has the capabilities to double its current capacity. In addition to the new amenities coming on later this year, train service will be established next year that will connect DEN to downtown Denver.
Those oncoming amenities mean along with “our financial strength and stability, increasing global flights and room to grow, we are positioned well for the next 20 years,” says Kim Day, airport CEO. “Not only will we remain a strong global competitor, but we will continue to expand economic opportunities that will generate more jobs.”
An event celebrating the 20-year anniversary will be held Saturday at the airport in the Westin Denver International Airport hotel ballroom. The VIP, non-public event, which will be attended by Day, Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Michael Huerta, past and present Denver mayors and other VIPs, will include a peek at the conference center in the new hotel.
