Denver International Airport celebrates opening of HNTB-designed Concourse A-West

Expansion adds 530,000 square feet and 12 new gates, plus an outdoor deck

DENVER (Nov. 7, 2022) – HNTB in partnership with Denver International Airport (DEN) officially cut the ribbon on the new Concourse A-West with a celebration last week. A-West supports DEN’s Vision 100 strategic plan to serve 100 million annual passengers within the next 10 years by increasing the airport’s overall gate capacity by 30%.

HNTB served as lead designer, architect and engineer for the A-West expansion. The HNTB design and construction administration teams include more than 19 subconsultants and was comprised of a diverse group of businesses that reflected the local community.

“We would like to congratulate DEN and the entire team on the ribbon-cutting for Concourse A-West,” said Reza Akhavan, PE, HNTB Denver office leader. “HNTB is committed to working with the Denver airport to ensure it will have the necessary capacity and infrastructure to meet growing passenger needs and its Vision 100.”

The new A-West Concourse includes 12 gates, 16 holdrooms and additional support space totaling 530,000 square feet of new space. There are 10,000 sq. ft. of new concessions space, a new outdoor deck with views of the mountains, outdoor seating and firepits for ambiance, plus a pet relief area and nursing room for traveler convenience.

A-West opened to flights and passengers on November 5. HNTB-designed Concourse B-West previously opened in November 2020, adding four new gates and nearly 90,000 sq. ft. of new space. The project recently won a Gold Award in Design from the International Interior Design Association, Mid-American Chapter.

“I’m proud to have been involved with this project from the beginning,” said Tim Cahill, HNTB principal designer. “HNTB’s design — including natural light, improved acoustics, modern restrooms and a variety of seating options —will result in a pleasant passenger experience.”

Currently, DEN is ranked the third-busiest airport in the world. When the expansion program is completed, all three of the airport’s concourses will have been expanded with 39 new gates.

“DEN has invested in world-class infrastructure for today’s passengers and those in the future,” said James Childs, HNTB project manager. “The airport serves as a regional economic engine and a significant gateway to cities across the U.S. and the globe.”

HNTB has assisted with several other projects at Denver International Airport. Work includes architectural and design services for the Concourse Renewal Program. HNTB also served as the design and construction manager on the airport’s Program Management Team for the Hotel and Transit Center. Additionally, an environmental assessment is currently underway by HNTB for the airport’s proposed seventh runway project.

Photos courtesy Denver International Airport