4th of July travel alert: Expect delays at Denver International Airport
Jul 2, 2024, 1:42 PM | Updated: Jul 3, 2024, 10:29 am
Are you traveling by air this July 4th holiday week? Well, DIA says travelers should be prepared for long security lines at Denver International Airport this week, as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates a surge in travelers for the 4th of July holiday.
Lorie Dankers, TSA spokesperson for Colorado, emphasized that regardless of the day or time, it’s expected to be extremely busy. On Sunday, DIA experienced its fourth busiest day ever, with over 86,900 people screened at security checkpoints. TSA estimates that nationally, over 13.3 million people will be screened between Wednesday and July 8, with more than 437,000 expected at DIA during that six-day period.
The peak day is projected to be Sunday, July 7, and the busiest times at DIA checkpoints are between 4 a.m. and noon, and 1 and 3 p.m.
“We have been anticipating the arrival of the Fourth of July travel period and planning our security operations to ensure that we are prepared for the surge in travelers who will be coming to the airport,” said Douglas Cruz, TSA federal security director for Colorado. “TSA will be on the job with security screening officers extending their shifts to ensure travelers have a smooth trip through DEN.”
Cruz said travelers should prepare for security screening: Don’t bring prohibited items in carry-on luggage, including fireworks, and allow plenty of time to go through the process.