By Andrew Chen
United Airlines has opened two new lounges at its Denver International Airport hub, including its largest lounge in the world. The two new United Clubs are part of the airline’s nearly $1 billion investment in the passenger experience in Denver.
A Brewery-Themed Space
The newest lounge in United’s network opened on Wednesday and features 35,000 square feet of space, making it the airline’s largest United Club. The space is inspired by Denver’s beer scene and includes brewery-style design elements and a beer-tasting experience. A feature bar on the mezzanine level allows passengers to choose from a seasonal rotation of ten local and craft beers.
According to the airline, the lounge also features inspiration from Denver’s urban areas, with concrete flooring and exposed ceilings as well as hand-crafted decorations. The lounge is located near gate B44 and has three levels with more than 600 seats.
A Rocky Mountain Experience
United opened its new A Concourse lounge last month and it is described as being influenced by the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Located near gate A26, it has 24,000 square feet of space and 400 seats across two levels.
According to the airline, it is designed to feel like a ski lodge. Travelers will find two fireplace lounges, stacked wood, vintage ski décor and a shuffleboard table. The space features a variety of custom handcrafted artwork from local artists.
Adding Capacity Amid Lounge Crowding Issues
Lounge crowding has been a growing issue at airports across the United States. American Express introduced changes to its Centurion Lounge access policies earlier this year and Delta Air Lines announced new lounge access restrictions on Wednesday as well.
The two new United Clubs at Denver International Airport are expected to double the carrier’s lounge capacity at the airport. The airline notes that more than two-thirds of its customers using the airport are connecting passengers. As United expands its operations at the airport, the need for additional lounge space will only increase. The airline is expected to open an additional revamped lounge at the airport in 2025, which will bring the total amount of lounge space at the airport to over 100,000 square feet.
Airline’s Ongoing Commitment to Denver
United has stated that both new lounges in Denver feature self-scan entry gates and agent-on-demand kiosks for travel planning assistance. Each lounge also has a wellness room and food and beverage options inspired by local cuisines and ingredients. The new lounges are part of the airline’s nearly $1 billion investment in the passenger experience for its travelers at Denver International Airport. In addition to its two new lounges, United introduced United Club Fly, a grab-and-go concept for passengers in Denver last December.
“The new United Club locations are designed and operated to reflect feedback from our customers and match the way their travel has evolved in recent years,” said Alexander Dorow, United’s Head of Clubs & Lounges in a press release. “We’re growing our hub in the Mile High City, and the expansion and renovation of United Club locations represents our commitment to Colorado and our customers’ experience.”
Earlier this year, United also announced six new routes from Denver International Airport that are not served by any other airline. These destinations include Asheville, N.C.; Greensboro, N.C.; Dayton, Ohio; Lexington, K.Y.; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Montego Bay, Jamaica. The airline also announced that it would be building 12 new gates at the airport. United has also recently purchased 113 acres of land near Denver International Airport. The airline stated that it will be using part of this land to expand its pilot training facility, but there is also speculation that the carrier is considering moving its headquarters to Denver from Chicago.