Finding Frontier Airlines at DIA: Navigation Guide to the East Side and Concourse A

Frontier Airlines operates its primary check-in and baggage services on the East Side of the Jeppesen Terminal (Level 6) at Denver International Airport (DEN). Once checked in, passengers depart from Concourse A. You can access Concourse A via the underground train or the pedestrian bridge connected to the terminal.

Navigating Denver International Airport (DIA) can be a daunting task due to its massive scale and symmetrical design. For passengers flying with Frontier Airlines, the mantra is "Stay East." As one of the airport's largest carriers and Denver being its primary hub, Frontier's physical footprint is strategically positioned to handle high passenger volumes. In 2026, with the completion of major terminal renovations and concourse expansions, understanding exactly where Frontier "sits" is essential for a stress-free travel experience.

The Layout of the Jeppesen Terminal: Why the East Side Matters

The Jeppesen Terminal is the central heart of DIA, where all ticketing, security, and baggage claims occur. It is split into two identical halves: the East Side and the West Side. This division is critical because the road system (Pena Boulevard) splits well before you arrive at the terminal. If you are being dropped off or parking, choosing the wrong side can result in a long walk through the Great Hall.

Ticketing and Check-In (Level 6)

Frontier Airlines’ ticket counters are located on Level 6, East Side. When approaching the airport by car, follow the signs for "Terminal East." Frontier typically occupies a large section of the ticketing islands.

In 2026, the check-in process is heavily digitized. Frontier utilizes a "self-service first" model. Upon arriving at the East Side ticketing area, you will find rows of kiosks. Passengers are expected to print their own bag tags and boarding passes if they haven't done so via the mobile app. Once tagged, you proceed to the automated bag drop-off points. Frontier staff are stationed nearby to assist with oversized luggage or international document verification, but the physical counters are streamlined for rapid processing.

Baggage Claim (Level 5)

If you are arriving in Denver on a Frontier flight, your checked luggage will arrive at the East Side Baggage Claim on Level 5. Specifically, Frontier typically uses carousels 1 through 4. It is important to note that the underground train from the concourses drops all passengers in the center of the terminal on Level 5. From the train exit, you must turn toward the East Side (right, if facing North) to reach the Frontier carousels.

Reaching the Gates: Concourse A Operations

While check-in happens in the terminal, the actual planes are located in the concourses. Frontier Airlines is the primary tenant of Concourse A. This is the only concourse at DIA that is physically connected to the terminal via a bridge, though it is also served by the underground automated people mover (train).

The Concourse A-East Expansion

A major development for Frontier passengers was the completion of the Concourse A-East expansion. This project added 14 new gates specifically designed for Frontier’s narrow-body fleet. These gates (A60 through A84) are located at the far eastern end of Concourse A.

This expansion was designed to handle Frontier’s unique operational needs, including "ground-boarding" facilities. Ground-boarding allows passengers to board the aircraft via ramps or stairs directly from the tarmac, often using both the front and rear doors of the plane simultaneously. This reduces "turn time" (the time a plane sits at the gate), helping Frontier maintain its low-cost structure. If your flight is departing from these higher-numbered gates, allow an extra 10 minutes for the walk from the center of the concourse.

Navigating the Pedestrian Bridge

One of the best "hacks" for Frontier passengers is the A-Bridge Security Checkpoint. Located on the north end of the Jeppesen Terminal on Level 6, this bridge allows you to walk directly from the terminal to Concourse A.

• Benefits: You get a spectacular view of the planes taxiing underneath the bridge.
• Security: There is a dedicated security screening area at the entrance of the bridge. It is often less crowded than the main North or South checkpoints.
• Arrival: Once you cross the bridge, you are on the upper level of Concourse A, near the central food court.

Transportation and Parking Strategy for Frontier Passengers

Because Frontier sits on the East Side, your choice of parking and transportation should align with that geography to save time.

Parking Options

• East Garage and East Economy Lot: These are the most convenient for Frontier travelers. Parking here allows you to take a short walk or a quick shuttle directly to the East Side of the terminal.
• 61st and Peña Station: If you are using the off-site "outbound" parking, the A-Line train will drop you at the Transit Center underneath the Westin Hotel. From there, you will need to ascend to Level 5 and walk toward the East Side.

Ride-Share and Drop-Off

When using Uber, Lyft, or a taxi, ensure the driver drops you off at Terminal East, Level 6. Frontier’s kiosks are usually located near Doors 602 through 610. If you are being picked up after a flight, head to Terminal East, Level 4 (for ride-share) or Level 5 (for private pickup).

Comparing Denver Airport Airline Locations

To understand why "Frontier sits on the East side" is a defining characteristic, it helps to see where other major carriers are located.

Step-by-Step Guide to Departure with Frontier

1. Check-In (24 Hours Prior): Use the Frontier mobile app to check in and pay for bags. This is significantly cheaper than doing it at the airport.
2. Arrival (2-3 Hours Prior): Arrive at DIA and head to Terminal East, Level 6.
3. Bag Tagging: Use a kiosk to print tags. Attach them to your bags and proceed to the Bag Drop counter.
4. Security Selection:
   
   
   • If you have TSA PreCheck, the North Security Checkpoint is generally the most efficient.
   • If you do not have PreCheck and are flying Frontier, check the wait times for the Bridge Security Checkpoint. It leads directly to Concourse A.
5. Transit to Gates: If you use the North or South security checkpoints, take the underground train one stop to Concourse A. If you use the Bridge Security, you are already walking toward your gate.
6. Gate Navigation: Check the monitors. If your gate is between A60 and A84, turn right (East) after exiting the train or bridge and prepare for a moderate walk.

Amenities and Facilities in Concourse A

Since you will likely spend time waiting in Concourse A, it is helpful to know what is available in Frontier’s "home" concourse.

• Dining: Concourse A-East features a modernized food hall. Popular options include local Denver breweries and quick-service kiosks that cater to the budget-conscious traveler.
• Charging Stations: The newer gates (A60-A84) are equipped with integrated power outlets and USB-C ports at almost every seat. This is a significant upgrade from the older sections of the airport.
• Pet Relief Areas: There is a dedicated indoor pet relief room in Concourse A near gate A34, which is convenient for those traveling with "pet-in-cabin."
• Nursing Rooms: DIA provides private nursing suites (Mamava pods) throughout Concourse A for traveling parents.

Common Troubleshooting for Frontier at DIA

"I accidentally went to Terminal West. What do I do?"

Don't panic. The Jeppesen Terminal is connected by a large open area called the Great Hall. It takes about 5 to 7 minutes to walk from the West ticketing counters to the East ticketing counters. If you are already at security, the North and South checkpoints accept passengers for any airline; the "East/West" distinction matters most for check-in and baggage claim.

"I missed the last train to Concourse A."

The underground train runs 24/7, though frequency decreases late at night. If the train is undergoing maintenance, you must use the pedestrian bridge located on Level 6 to reach Concourse A.

"My bag didn't show up on the carousel."

The Frontier Baggage Service Office is located on Level 5, East Side, right next to the baggage carousels. Because DIA is a hub for Frontier, they have a full-service team on-site to handle lost or damaged luggage claims.

Summary of Technical Specifications for 2026

By 2026, the DIA "Great Hall Project" has completed several phases, making the East Side check-in area more spacious. Frontier’s footprint remains firm on the East side to accommodate their high-frequency flight schedule. The 14-gate expansion in Concourse A-East is now fully operational, featuring "smart" gate technology that updates boarding groups and flight status in real-time on high-definition displays.

Passengers should be aware that Frontier’s strict baggage size enforcement is facilitated by modern electronic sizers located both at the East Side check-in counters and at the Concourse A boarding gates. Ensuring your personal item fits these dimensions is the easiest way to avoid last-minute fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Frontier always on the East side of the airport?

Yes, for all administrative and ground-handling purposes. This includes ticket counters, kiosks, and baggage claim carousels. While the airplane might technically park at any gate the airport assigns in an emergency, 99% of Frontier operations occur in Concourse A, and 100% of their landside services are on the East side of the Jeppesen Terminal.

Can I use the West side security if I'm flying Frontier?

Yes. Both North and South security checkpoints lead to the same underground train that serves all concourses. However, if you have bags to check, you must go to the East side first. If you are traveling with only a carry-on and have a mobile boarding pass, you can enter through either side, though the Bridge Security (near the East side) is usually more convenient for Concourse A flights.

How far is the walk to the new Frontier gates in Concourse A?

The new gates (A60-A84) are at the far end of the East expansion. From the center of Concourse A (where the train arrives), it is approximately a 5-to-10-minute walk. Moving walkways are available for most of the distance to assist passengers.

What is the best parking lot for Frontier?

The East Economy Lot offers the best balance of price and proximity. It is located on the East side of the airport property, and the shuttle drops you off directly at the Frontier check-in doors on Level 6 East.

Does Frontier have a lounge in Concourse A?

Frontier does not operate its own branded lounge. However, Concourse A is home to the American Airlines Admirals Club, the Delta Sky Club, and a USO Lounge. Frontier passengers can sometimes access independent lounges (like those in the Priority Pass network) if available, but Frontier's low-cost model does not include complimentary lounge access.

Practical Recommendation

For the most efficient experience at DIA in 2026, download the Frontier mobile app and the FlyDEN app before arriving. Check the "Security Wait Times" on the FlyDEN app as you approach the airport. If the Bridge Security is under 15 minutes, tell your driver to drop you at the north end of Terminal East. This allows you to check your bags and walk straight across the bridge to your gate in Concourse A, bypassing the underground train entirely and enjoying one of the best views in aviation.