DENVER (KDVR) — Hundreds of flights were delayed at Denver International Airport on Sunday as snow across the country and major holiday travel combined to slow operations on one of the busiest travel days of the season.
Airport officials said passenger volume was high as travelers returned home from holiday celebrations, while others arrived in Denver ahead of New Year’s festivities. Long lines formed around the airport, from shuttle parking to baggage checkpoints and security checkpoints.
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Security wait times peaked at around 30 minutes on Sunday morning. While most travelers moved through the lines without major problems, at least one passenger said the delay caused her to miss a flight.
“I couldn’t get through security, and I had a really nice guy help me change the flight,” said Kelly Marlor, who was traveling on Sunday.
FlightAware reported that more than 480 flights at Denver International Airport were delayed or canceled as of 2 pm Some travelers also experienced turbulent flights due to windy conditions.
“It was a really bad mess,” said Sonia Rosenberg, who was visiting friends in Denver. “They couldn’t even give us drinks or snacks on our flight, but it was fine. We made it here. So that’s all that matters.”
Despite the crowds, many travelers said they expected delays and were prepared with extra time. Travelers who spoke to FOX31 said the busy airport was a small price to pay after spending the holidays with loved ones.
“It was a lot of fun,” said Patricia Cunningham, who was traveling home to Albuquerque after visiting her children for Christmas. “The weather was unusually warm, but today we woke up to some snow, so that was nice.”
Outside the terminals, reunions took place as friends and family greeted the arriving passengers. Risa Nutt and Samantha Freedberg said they were gathering friends they met at summer camp and planned to spend New Year’s Eve together in Denver.
“We’re spending New Years together, so we’re going to take them to all the iconic places,” Nutt said.
Airport officials estimate that more than 750,000 passengers traveled through Denver International Airport from December 19 through Sunday.
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