Denver Airport Medical Device Services: Complete Guide 2025

Airport Information Disclaimer: This guide is compiled from Denver International Airport official information and traveler experience data. Airport facilities and services may change. Always verify current information with DEN directly before travel. Last verified: January 2025.

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Why Denver International Airport Matters for Medical Device Travelers

Denver International Airport (DEN) is the third-busiest airport in the United States, serving over 77 million passengers annually. As a major hub for United Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, DEN is a critical connection point for travelers crossing the country—including the millions who travel with portable oxygen concentrators, CPAPs, wheelchairs, and other medical equipment.

For medical device travelers, DEN stands out as one of the most accessible airports in the U.S., with excellent facilities, comprehensive support services, and outstanding infrastructure for passengers with medical needs. However, the airport's massive size (53 square miles—larger than Manhattan) and unique layout (requiring train connections between Jeppesen Terminal and concourses) present navigation challenges for travelers with mobility limitations or bulky medical equipment.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about traveling through Denver Airport with medical devices, from TSA screening to gate services.

What You'll Learn:

• Denver Airport layout and terminal navigation for medical device users
• TSA screening procedures at DEN security checkpoints
• Charging station locations throughout all concourses
• Wheelchair and mobility assistance services
• Medical emergency support and device replacement resources
• Airline-specific medical device check-in procedures at DEN

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Denver Airport Layout Overview

Understanding DEN's Unique Design

Airport Structure:

• Jeppesen Terminal: Main terminal building (ticketing, baggage claim, pre-security)
• Underground Train System: Connects Jeppesen Terminal to Concourses A, B, and C
• Concourse A: United Airlines hub (gates A23-A95)
• Concourse B: United Airlines, Southwest Airlines (gates B7-B95)
• Concourse C: Southwest, Frontier, and other airlines (gates C23-C56)
• Train Travel Time: 3-5 minutes between terminal and each concourse

Important for Medical Device Travelers:

• All concourses require train access (no walking bridges)
• Elevators and accessible train cars available at all stations
• Allow 10-15 minutes for terminal-to-gate travel (longer during peak hours)
• Charging stations and accessibility features present in all concourses

Accessibility Features

Elevators and Accessible Transport:

• Elevators at all train stations (Jeppesen Terminal and Concourses A, B, C)
• Accessible train cars on every train (clearly marked)
• Level boarding (no steps between train and platform)
• Wide doorways and spacious cars accommodate wheelchairs and medical equipment

Accessible Restrooms:

• Family restrooms with accessible features in all concourses
• Adult changing stations at multiple locations
• Companion care restrooms in Jeppesen Terminal and Concourse B

Service Animal Relief Areas:

• Post-security relief areas in all three concourses
• Pre-security areas outside Jeppesen Terminal
• Indoor and outdoor facilities available

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TSA Security Screening at Denver Airport

Security Checkpoint Locations

Jeppesen Terminal Security:

• North Security Checkpoint: Primarily for Concourse A (United Airlines passengers)
• South Security Checkpoint: Primarily for Concourses B and C (Southwest, Frontier, other airlines)
• Bridge Security Checkpoints (2): Accessible from pedestrian bridges, less crowded

Which Checkpoint to Choose:

• Check your airline and gate assignment
• North checkpoint often busier during morning United banks (6-8 AM)
• Bridge checkpoints typically have shorter lines but require walking to reach
• TSA PreCheck available at all checkpoints

TSA Screening for Medical Devices

Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs):

1. Remove POC from carrying bag
2. Place in separate bin for X-ray screening
3. Notify TSA officer: "I'm traveling with a portable oxygen concentrator"
4. POC will be visually inspected and may be swabbed for explosive residue
5. TSA may request to see it powered on (keep easily accessible)
6. Spare batteries screened separately (show watt-hour ratings if asked)

CPAP and BiPAP Machines:

• CPAP can remain in carry-on bag at DEN (TSA PreCheck lanes)
• Standard lanes: May need to remove for separate screening
• Distilled water must comply with 3.4 oz limit (unless medical documentation provided)
• Have medical documentation ready if carrying larger water quantity

Wheelchairs and Mobility Devices:

• Manual wheelchairs: Can proceed through standard checkpoint
• Power wheelchairs: Require specialized screening area
• Notify TSA officer immediately upon arrival at checkpoint
• TSA will direct you to accessible screening lane
• Battery inspection required (be prepared to show watt-hour rating)

Insulin Pumps and Diabetes Devices:

• Can remain on body during screening
• Request pat-down instead of body scanner (if manufacturer recommends)
• Notify TSA officer before screening begins
• Carry supplies in clear plastic bag for easy inspection

TSA PreCheck at Denver Airport

PreCheck Availability:

• Available at all DEN security checkpoints
• Clearly marked lanes with ✓ symbol
• Operational hours: Typically 4 AM - 8 PM daily (verify before travel)

PreCheck Benefits at DEN:

• Average wait time: 5 minutes (vs. 15-30 minutes standard lanes)
• Keep shoes, belt, light jacket on
• Leave laptops and liquids in bag
• Medical devices still require inspection but process is faster

How to Access:

• Add Known Traveler Number (KTN) to airline reservation
• Verify "TSA PreCheck" appears on boarding pass
• Follow signs to PreCheck lanes at security

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Charging Stations and Power Outlets

Charging Station Availability

Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Outstanding)

Denver International Airport is widely recognized as having the best outlet coverage of any major U.S. airport. Power outlets and charging stations are abundant throughout all concourses.

Concourse A Charging Stations

Outlet Density: Approximately one outlet per 2-3 seats

Charging Stations:

• Near gates A30, A45, A60, A75, A85 (dedicated "Recharge Zones")
• Along walls throughout entire concourse
• Floor-mounted outlets in gate seating areas
• USB ports integrated into many seating areas

Best Spots for POC/CPAP Charging:

• "Recharge Zones" with multiple power strips (accommodates 10+ devices)
• Gate waiting areas have excellent outlet availability
• United Club lounges (if you have access) have premium outlet coverage

Concourse B Charging Stations

Outlet Density: Approximately one outlet per 2-3 seats

Charging Stations:

• Dedicated charging stations every 50 feet throughout concourse
• "Recharge Zones" near gates B20, B40, B60, B85
• Floor outlets in all gate seating areas
• Wall outlets along concourse corridors

Best Spots:

• Near Southwest gates (B20-B50) - excellent outlet coverage
• Central concourse area near food court
• United Club (Concourse B) for premium access

Concourse C Charging Stations

Outlet Density: Approximately one outlet per 2 seats (best in airport)

Charging Stations:

• Most outlets per square foot of any DEN concourse
• "Recharge Zones" with high-capacity power strips
• USB charging ports in most seating areas
• Wall and floor outlets throughout

Best Spots:

• Gates C30-C45 (newest infrastructure, 20+ outlets per gate)
• Frontier gates have particularly good outlet coverage
• Central Concourse C area near shops

Jeppesen Terminal Charging (Pre-Security)

Outlet Density: Moderate (primarily at seating areas)

Charging Locations:

• Baggage claim seating areas
• International arrivals area
• Great Hall seating areas (limited)
• Near restaurants and coffee shops

Note: Most DEN passengers will spend majority of time post-security in concourses where outlet coverage is far superior.

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Wheelchair and Mobility Assistance Services

Requesting Wheelchair Assistance

How to Request:

1. At Booking: Select "wheelchair assistance" when purchasing ticket
2. By Phone: Call airline 24-48 hours before flight
3. At Airport: Request at airline check-in counter or ticket counter
4. Curbside: Request assistance from skycap at curbside check-in

Service Provided:

• Wheelchair transport from check-in to gate
• Assistance through security screening
• Transport between gates during connections
• Wheelchair service from gate to baggage claim

Wait Times:

• Average: 5-10 minutes at check-in
• Peak hours (6-8 AM): May take 15-20 minutes
• Recommendation: Arrive 2+ hours early for domestic flights to account for wait

Power Wheelchair and Mobility Scooter Check-In

United Airlines (Concourse A, some Concourse B gates):

• Check-in at United customer service counter (not self-service kiosks)
• Provide battery type and watt-hour rating
• Gate check recommended (wheelchair returned at jet bridge)
• United staff will tag device and assist with battery procedures

Southwest Airlines (Concourse B, Concourse C):

• Check-in at Southwest ticket counter
• Southwest has streamlined wheelchair handling process
• Gate check available for most wheelchairs
• Preboarding priority for passengers needing extra time

Frontier Airlines (Concourse C):

• Check-in at Frontier ticket counter with wheelchair documentation
• Advance notification recommended (48 hours)
• Gate check process similar to other carriers

Battery Inspection:

• TSA and airline staff will inspect battery for compliance
• Lithium batteries under 160 Wh: Generally accepted without disconnection
• Lithium batteries 160-300 Wh: Require disconnection and terminal protection
• Have battery watt-hour rating documentation ready

Accessible Ground Transportation

Airport to Denver:

• RTD Train (A Line): Wheelchair accessible, 37-minute ride to Union Station
• Taxi/Uber/Lyft: Wheelchair-accessible vehicles available (request in app or at taxi stand)
• Hotel Shuttles: Most Denver airport shuttles wheelchair-accessible (verify with hotel)
• Rental Cars: Accessible parking close to rental car shuttle pickup

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Medical Emergency Support and Device Replacement

Airport Medical Services

DEN Medical Facilities:

• Airport Medical Clinic: Located pre-security in Jeppesen Terminal
• Hours: 6 AM - 10 PM daily
• Services: Urgent medical care, prescriptions, medical equipment support
• Phone: 303-342-4448

Paramedic Services:

• Available 24/7 throughout airport
• Call 911 from any airport phone for medical emergencies
• Airport staff can summon paramedics via radio

Medical Device Replacement and Repair

POC and CPAP Replacement:

• Lincare (Denver area): 303-329-6400 - Same-day POC rental and emergency replacement
• Apria Healthcare: 720-294-7700 - CPAP and POC equipment in Denver metro
• Direct Home Medical: 303-777-7707 - Medical device rentals and emergency service

Wheelchair Repair:

• Wheelchair Repair at Airport: Limited on-site repair capability (contact airline customer service)
• Denver Wheelchair Services: 303-761-6834 - Emergency repair and replacement
• ATG Rehab: 303-412-0722 - Power wheelchair emergency service

Pharmacy Services (for medication needs):

• Airport Pharmacy: Pre-security in Jeppesen Terminal (limited hours, verify before travel)
• Walgreens (nearby): 6890 Tower Road (5 minutes from airport) - 24-hour pharmacy

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Airline-Specific Medical Device Services

United Airlines (Concourse A, some Concourse B)

Medical Device Check-In:

• Special Assistance Desk near gates A40 and A80
• Staff trained in medical device handling
• POC notification: Recommended at check-in even if notified in advance
• Wheelchair gate check: Available at all United gates

United Club Access (Medical Travelers):

• Premium outlets and charging in United Clubs (Concourses A and B)
• Accessible via membership, day pass, or premium ticket
• Quieter environment for managing medical devices

Southwest Airlines (Concourse B and C)

Medical Device Check-In:

• Check-in at ticket counter (kiosks may not accommodate medical device notations)
• Southwest's open seating: Board early (A1-A15) with preboarding for medical needs
• Medical equipment: Does not count toward carry-on limit

Preboarding:

• Passengers needing extra time to stow medical equipment can preboard
• Notify gate agent before boarding begins
• Choose seats near outlets if charging needed during flight

Frontier Airlines (Concourse C)

Medical Device Check-In:

• Advance notification strongly recommended (48 hours)
• Check-in at Frontier ticket counter with medical device documentation
• POC and CPAP: Must meet Frontier's specific battery requirements (verify in advance)

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Denver Airport Tips for Medical Device Travelers

Arrival and Check-In

Timing:

• Arrive 2 hours before domestic flights (2.5 hours during peak times)
• Arrive 3 hours before international flights
• Peak travel times at DEN: 5-8 AM and 4-7 PM

Check-In Strategy:

• Use airline app to check in 24 hours before flight
• Proceed directly to baggage drop or gate (if no checked bags)
• If wheelchair or POC requires gate check, notify agent at check-in

Navigating the Train System

Train Tips:

• Follow "To Trains" signs after security
• Wait on platform for accessible train car (clearly marked)
• Allow 10-15 minutes for train wait and travel to concourse
• During peak times, trains run every 2-3 minutes

With Medical Equipment:

• Position wheelchair or rolling medical equipment near train doors
• Secure devices during train movement (3-5 minute ride can be bumpy)
• Exit at your concourse's train station

Gate and Boarding

At the Gate:

• Inform gate agent immediately upon arrival that you're traveling with medical device
• Ask about preboarding if you need extra time
• Secure outlet for charging if battery low
• Stay near gate area to hear boarding announcements

Preboarding:

• Available for passengers with disabilities or needing extra time
• Allowed to board before general boarding groups
• Gives you time to stow medical equipment and get settled

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long does it take to get from security to my gate at Denver Airport?

A: Allow 10-20 minutes. After clearing security, you'll take the underground train (3-5 minutes) to your concourse, then walk to your specific gate (5-10 minutes depending on gate location). With medical equipment or mobility assistance, add 5-10 minutes.

Q2: Are there charging outlets at every gate at DEN?

A: Yes. Denver Airport has excellent outlet coverage with approximately one outlet per 2-3 seats at all gates. "Recharge Zones" with multiple outlets are located throughout all concourses.

Q3: Can I charge my POC battery during a layover at Denver Airport?

A: Absolutely. DEN has the best outlet availability of any major U.S. airport. You'll easily find outlets at your gate or at dedicated charging stations throughout the concourse. Typical 2-hour layover allows 50-70% charge.

Q4: Does Denver Airport have wheelchair assistance between concourses?

A: Yes. When requesting wheelchair assistance, specify that you have a connection. Airport staff will transport you between gates via the train system, including assistance on and off trains.

Q5: What if my wheelchair breaks at Denver Airport?

A: Contact your airline's customer service desk immediately. Airlines are required to provide temporary wheelchair if yours is damaged. For repairs, airport staff can connect you with local wheelchair repair services (Denver Wheelchair Services: 303-761-6834).

Q6: Are there quiet areas at DEN for managing medical devices?

A: Yes. Concourse C has a dedicated "Relaxation Room" (near gate C50). Additionally, airline lounges (United Club, Southwest lounge) offer quieter environments. Family restrooms provide private space if needed.

Q7: Can I get medical help at Denver Airport if I have issues with my device?

A: Yes. Airport Medical Clinic (Jeppesen Terminal, pre-security) can assist with medical issues. For device replacement, contact local medical equipment providers like Lincare (303-329-6400) for same-day service.

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Emergency Contact Information

Denver Airport Medical Services:

• Airport Medical Clinic: 303-342-4448
• Emergency (Paramedics): 911 from any airport phone
• Airport Information: 303-342-2000

Medical Device Replacement (Denver Area):

• Lincare (POC/CPAP): 303-329-6400
• Apria Healthcare: 720-294-7700
• Direct Home Medical: 303-777-7707

Wheelchair Services:

• Denver Wheelchair Services: 303-761-6834
• ATG Rehab: 303-412-0722

Airline Accessibility Services:

• United Airlines Special Assistance: 1-800-228-2744
• Southwest Airlines Disability Services: 1-800-435-9792
• Frontier Airlines Special Services: 1-801-401-9000

Ground Transportation:

• RTD Information (Train to Denver): 303-299-6000
• Taxi/Wheelchair-Accessible Transport: Available at Ground Transportation level

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Key Takeaways: Traveling Through Denver Airport with Medical Devices

✅ Excellent Accessibility:

• Outstanding outlet coverage throughout all concourses (best in U.S.)
• Accessible train system connecting terminal to all concourses
• Comprehensive wheelchair and mobility assistance services
• Medical clinic and emergency services available

✅ Navigation Tips:

• Allow 10-20 minutes for terminal-to-gate travel via train
• Arrive 2+ hours before domestic flights (3 hours international)
• Request wheelchair assistance at booking or check-in
• Use TSA PreCheck for faster security screening

✅ Charging Strategy:

• Outlets abundant at all gates and throughout concourses
• "Recharge Zones" with multiple outlets at regular intervals
• Typical 2-hour layover allows significant battery recharge
• Bring charger in carry-on (widely accessible power)

✅ Emergency Preparation:

• Know location of Airport Medical Clinic (pre-security, Jeppesen Terminal)
• Save local medical equipment provider phone numbers
• Keep airline accessibility services contact information handy
• Identify your concourse's accessible restroom locations

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Medical Disclaimer: This guide provides airport facility information for travelers with medical devices. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your physician before air travel with medical conditions. Always follow TSA, airline, and device manufacturer guidelines for safe travel.

Airport Information Disclaimer: Denver International Airport facilities, services, and layouts are subject to change. Always verify current information with DEN (303-342-2000) or denver-airport.com before traveling.

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This comprehensive airport guide is part of MedFly Safe's commitment to helping medical device travelers navigate airports successfully. For more airport guides, see our coverage of LAX, JFK, and Atlanta.