Your Guide to the 10 Best Airlines to Denver in 2025

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Thinking about a trip to Denver? With its vibrant downtown, mountain views, and easy access to the Rockies, Denver is the perfect blend of city energy and outdoor adventure. I’ve flown to Denver multiple times over the years, always finding ways to keep costs low while still enjoying a smooth travel experience.

For this guide, I analyzed flights from 200 airports across the US to highlight the top 10 airlines for flying to Denver in 2025. These airlines excel in budget-friendly fares, frequent schedules, and in-flight comfort. Whether you’re coming for world-class skiing, stunning national parks, or Denver’s foodie scene, this list has you covered with the best options for getting there affordably and comfortably. Let’s dive into the top airlines to start your Denver adventure on the right foot!

Quick tip to find cheap flights to Denver

For the past 4 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $155 roundtrip fare from Boston to Denver.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot every year, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. In my experience, you’ll get your money back after finding just one discounted flight! As such, I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, be sure to use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best Denver flights in 2025.

1. 🇺🇸 Delta Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), Minneapolis (MSP), Detroit (DTW), Seattle (SEA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Comfort+, First Class, Delta One (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles
• ☕ Perks: Extensive Denver service, reliable operations, premium airport lounges
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Delta flyers headed to Denver can check skis or snowboards for free as part of their standard checked baggage allowance. Just make sure it’s packed in a proper case.

Delta isn’t always the flashiest airline, but when it comes to getting to Denver smoothly, they’re one of the most reliable. With nonstop service from over 50 US cities, chances are good there’s a Delta flight that fits your schedule. 

The onboard experience is solid from front to back. First Class includes roomy seats and full meal service, while Comfort+ gives you more legroom and free drinks without a huge price jump. Even Main Cabin comes with seatback screens, power outlets, and free snacks. What really stands out, though, is how Delta handles disruptions. They communicate pretty well and actually seem prepared when weather hits, which matters in a place like Colorado.

Denver might not be a Delta hub, but you wouldn’t know it. Flights from cities like Atlanta, Seattle, and Minneapolis run multiple times a day, giving you real flexibility. Their ground crew at DEN is quick, efficient, and used to handling everything from ski gear to last-minute rebookings during snowstorms.

SkyMiles is a useful program if you fly Delta often. You can earn points on every flight and boost your balance faster through American Express cards, which also unlock perks like free checked bags and priority boarding. First Class fares to Denver usually range from $400 to $800, while Comfort+ often costs just $50 to $100 more than economy. And if weather delays your trip, Sky Club lounges at major airports are a comfortable place to wait it out.

• Read next: Affordable Places to Fly from Atlanta

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2. 🇺🇸 Southwest Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas Love Field (DAL), Phoenix (PHX), Baltimore (BWI), Chicago Midway (MDW)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy (all seats), Business Select (priority boarding)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Rapid Rewards
• ☕ Perks: Two free checked bags, no change fees, frequent Denver service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Booking with points on Southwest lets you cancel anytime and get all your rewards points back instantly. No fees, no penalties.

Looking to haul ski gear to Colorado without breaking the bank? Southwest might be your best friend for Denver adventures. The airline’s famous “Bags Fly Free” policy means you can pack all your ski equipment, hiking boots, and Colorado shopping finds without watching the fees pile up like fresh powder.

The onboard experience is refreshingly straightforward. There are no assigned seats, no pretentious service, just friendly crew members ready to help out. Southwest’s all-737 fleet provides consistent comfort across routes, while their open seating policy lets early boarding passengers snag those coveted exit row seats with extra legroom. The highlight? Business Select passengers get priority boarding, a free drink, and extra Rapid Rewards points, making it worth the upgrade on longer flights to Denver.

What really makes Southwest a solid choice for Denver is the flexibility. There are no change fees, which means you can shift plans if the snow conditions change or you want to stay an extra day in the mountains. They run multiple flights to Denver from most major US cities, so rebooking is usually easy. 

Rapid Rewards earns points based on dollars spent rather than miles flown, making it easy to understand and achieve elite status. They also offer a Companion Pass that lets one person fly free with you after earning enough points, which is perfect for couples planning multiple Colorado adventures. 

3. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Denver (DEN), San Francisco (SFO), Newark (EWR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Plus, Business (Polaris), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus
• ☕ Perks: Denver hub advantage, extensive route network, Star Alliance benefits
• 🧠 Pro Tip: United’s Denver hub means shorter connections and better weather contingency options when storms hit the Rocky Mountains.

Looking for the home-team advantage on your trip to Denver? United runs one of its biggest hubs out of Denver International, which translates to more flights, better schedules, and crews who actually know how to deal with Colorado’s unpredictable mountain weather.

That hub status brings real perks. United offers lie-flat seats on select long-haul domestic routes, while Premium Plus adds more legroom and upgraded meals without the full first-class price tag. Even Economy passengers on most Denver routes can bring a carry-on and pick their seat, which isn’t always true on other routes. United’s newer planes have updated seatback screens, USB ports, and solid Wi-Fi, while the mobile app does a good job keeping you updated on gates and tight connections.

When things go sideways (hello, snowstorms) United is better prepared than most. With extra crews and aircraft based at DEN, they’re more likely to keep your trip moving or rebook you quickly. The United Club lounges in Denver also have great views of the Rockies, local craft beer, and plenty of space to wait out delays without feeling trapped in the terminal.

MileagePlus works well if Denver is a regular stop. The United Club Infinite Card gives you lounge access and perks that can pay off in just a few trips. The United Explorer Card adds free checked bags and priority boarding, which comes in handy if you’re flying with ski gear. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to London

4. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Phoenix (PHX), Charlotte (CLT), Miami (MIA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage
• ☕ Perks: Extensive route network, oneworld alliance benefits, premium transcontinental service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Booking an AAdvantage “Web Special” fare to Denver with miles often costs fewer points than cash. Just know these can’t be changed once processed.

American Airlines makes getting to Denver simple, especially if you’re flying in from the South or East Coast. The airline’s huge Dallas-Fort Worth hub offers tons of connection options, and if you’re coming from the coasts, their premium transcontinental routes offer surprisingly upscale touches.

Service varies depending on the aircraft, but Denver routes increasingly feature newer planes with better seats and in-flight tech. On long-haul domestic routes, Flagship First includes lie-flat seats and multi-course meals that feel more like international Business Class. Domestic First is still a comfortable option, with recliner-style seats and complimentary food and drinks. Premium Economy gives you more legroom and early boarding, though seats can sell out fast on ski-season flights. If you’re flying Main Cabin, upgrading to Main Cabin Extra adds extra space for a reasonable fee.

American’s operations into Denver have gotten more reliable in recent years. Their crews are used to handling ski gear, and their partnership with Alaska Airlines gives West Coast travelers more flexibility. While there’s no Admirals Club in Denver yet, you’ll find lounges in most major departure cities with local snacks, drinks, and a place to relax before your flight.

The AAdvantage program offers solid value through their Citi and Barclays credit card partnerships, with cards providing free checked bags crucial for ski gear. Meanwhile, elite status benefits include complimentary upgrades and preferred seating, while oneworld partnerships expand earning and redemption opportunities globally.

5. 🇫🇷 Air France

• 🏠 Hub: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First (La Première)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue (joint with KLM)
• ☕ Perks: Paris-Denver seasonal service, European sophistication, SkyTeam benefits
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Flying to Denver from Europe? Air France’s nonstop Paris route is your only direct option. Book early, as award space is limited and demand spikes during ski and hiking seasons.

Want to add some French sophistication to your Colorado adventure? Air France offers the only direct European service to Denver with their seasonal Paris route, creating unique possibilities for travelers wanting to combine European and American mountain experiences in one trip.

On the airline’s Boeing 777, Business Class comes with lie-flat beds and upgraded French cuisine, while Economy passengers still enjoy complimentary wine and a well-curated in-flight meal. The service feels more personal than corporate, with crews who treat you like a guest rather than just another seat.

This seasonal route is timed perfectly for outdoor travelers, operating during Colorado’s peak summer hiking and winter ski seasons. Skipping East Coast layovers saves hours, and onward connections through Charles de Gaulle open up nearly every corner of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Flying Blue can be a good value if you book smart. Their monthly promo rewards sometimes cut the number of miles needed by 25% or more, which makes the perks more attainable. You can also transfer points from American Express, Chase, or Citi, and SkyTeam partners like Delta help cover the US side of the journey. 

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in France
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to Paris

6. 🇨🇦 Air Canada

• 🏠 Hub: Toronto (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), Montreal (YUL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Aeroplan
• ☕ Perks: Canadian connection convenience, Star Alliance benefits, competitive pricing
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Air Canada’s Vancouver-Denver route offers stunning Rocky Mountain views on both sides of the border, plus easier customs for international travelers

If you’re heading to Denver and prefer a quieter, more polished flying experience, Air Canada delivers. With hubs in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, they offer smooth connections into Colorado, which is especially convenient if you’re planning to pair a Rockies trip with some time in Canada.

The Air Canada experience emphasizes comfort without unnecessary frills. Economy includes complimentary snacks and seatback entertainment on most flights. Premium Economy gives you extra space, early boarding, and better meals without going full Business Class. Their top-tier Signature Class includes lie-flat seats and premium lounges, ideal for longer flights. Even in Economy, their baggage policy and change flexibility beat what most US carriers offer.

The route options with Air Canada make planning a Denver trip surprisingly flexible. You can fly from cities like Vancouver or Toronto, both offering multiple daily departures and reliable schedules. Approaches into Denver from the west also come with some of the best Rocky Mountain views you’ll get from a window seat.

Aeroplan is one of the easiest programs to use in North America. You can redeem points on all Star Alliance airlines, and their co-branded credit cards offer generous bonuses and useful perks. 

• Read next: Cheapest Places to Fly to in Canada
• You may also like: Hidden Gems in Toronto
• For more reading: Prettiest Spots in Vancouver
• Keep reading: Cheapest Places to Fly from Montreal
• Also worth reading: Breathtaking Places in North America

7. 🇺🇸 Frontier Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Denver International Airport (DEN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Stretch (extra legroom)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: FRONTIER Miles
• ☕ Perks: Denver hub advantage, ultra-low base fares, animal-themed livery
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Frontier’s “Works” bundle includes seat selection, carry-on bag, and priority boarding for about $60 extra, often cheaper than à la carte pricing.

Looking for rock-bottom fares to the Rockies? Frontier calls Denver home with their quirky animal-themed planes and ultra-low-cost approach that can get you to Colorado for less than a tank of gas. Sure, you’ll pay extra for everything, but when base fares start at $39 one-way, there’s plenty of room for add-ons.

Service is no-frills, but surprisingly efficient. Frontier’s all-Airbus fleet offers consistent (if basic) comfort, while their famous animal tail art creates a fun atmosphere that kids especially love. Stretch seating provides decent legroom for reasonable fees, while their snack and beverage service offers surprisingly good options if you’re willing to pay.

Home-field advantage really kicks in during weather delays. Frontier has crews, maintenance, and backup aircraft based in Denver, so they recover faster than many larger airlines. They also offer nonstop service to most major US cities, often with several daily departures, which makes rebooking easier when plans shift. 

FRONTIER Miles won’t wow loyalty program enthusiasts, but their ultra-low fares make up for basic rewards. Their credit card comes with perks like an annual companion pass and elite status boosts, which can pay off fast for frequent travelers. Expect roundtrip fares to Denver between $50 and $150, but plan to spend another $60 to $100 on seat selection and bags. 

8. 🇮🇸 Icelandair

• 🏠 Hub: Keflavik International Airport (KEF)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Comfort, Business (Saga Premium)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Saga Club
• ☕ Perks: Free Iceland stopovers, unique Nordic experience, competitive transatlantic fares
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Icelandair’s free Iceland stopover program lets you explore Reykjavik for up to 7 days at no extra airfare cost on your way to Denver.

Icelandair takes a different route to Denver, both in style and in flight path. The airline’s seasonal service through Reykjavik offers a rare chance to pair your Colorado trip with a few days in Iceland, all on a single ticket. For travelers who like to make the journey part of the adventure, this routing opens up something special.

The experience onboard is simple, comfortable, and very Nordic. Economy includes solid legroom, free coffee and water, and meal options that feature Icelandic touches like skyr and arctic char. Economy Comfort adds more space and a quieter cabin. Saga Premium, their business class, offers wide reclining seats, Icelandic wool blankets, premium dining, and priority service. While the seats aren’t lie-flat, the overall experience is calm and well-designed.

Keflavik Airport is small, efficient, and easy to connect through. Most transfers require minimal walking, and border control tends to be less chaotic than in larger hubs. The Denver flight is seasonal and timed to connect well with European arrivals and returns to the US. Icelandair is also known for handling delays and disruptions better than many larger carriers, with local support teams that actually help.

Saga Club offers straightforward rewards without complex tier requirements, while their Iceland stopover program creates incredible value propositions. Through points redemptions, you can literally add a Reykjavik mini-vacation to your Denver trip for free, exploring Blue Lagoon, Northern Lights, and Icelandic culture. 

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Iceland
• You may also like: Things to Do in Reykjavik

9. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy (World Traveller), Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus), Business (Club World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Avios)
• ☕ Perks: London-Denver direct service, British service standards, oneworld benefits
• 🧠 Pro Tip: BA’s “Part Pay with Avios” lets you knock hundreds off your Denver fare using as few as 1,000 points. It’s one of the easiest ways to stretch your rewards without needing a full redemption.

Fancy a proper British journey to the American West? British Airways connects London directly to Denver with their distinctive service that somehow makes crossing eight time zones feel civilized. Their Heathrow hub provides excellent connections from Europe, Africa, and Asia, making Denver accessible from virtually anywhere.

The London–Denver route is operated by the 787-9, one of BA’s newest aircraft. In Club World, you’ll get the updated business class suite with direct aisle access and extra privacy. World Traveller Plus adds more legroom, better food, and quieter cabin space. Even Economy comes with seatback entertainment, complimentary meals, and that signature British service style that feels thoughtful without being over the top.

On the ground, British Airways has stepped up its reliability into Denver. Check-in, arrivals, and rebooking all move more smoothly now, and their partnership with American Airlines makes domestic connections across the US simple. If you’re flying out of Heathrow, their Club lounges are among the better ones in Europe, with real food, proper tea, and space to stretch out before the long haul.

Executive Club with Avios is still one of the more flexible programs out there. Points are easy to earn through Chase and Amex, and perks like lounge access or upgrade vouchers actually come into play for frequent flyers. 

• Read next: Budget-Friendly Destinations from the UK

10. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More
• ☕ Perks: German efficiency, extensive European network, reliable operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Lufthansa’s Munich-Denver route offers shorter connection times than Frankfurt, with better mountain views during approach to Colorado.

Lufthansa brings a no-nonsense kind of comfort to your trip to Colorado. With flights to Denver from both Frankfurt and Munich, they offer dependable service and smooth connections, especially if you’re combining a European city break with a ski trip in the Rockies.

Onboard, the setup is exactly what you’d expect from Germany’s flag carrier—efficient, consistent, and quietly comfortable. Business Class comes with lie-flat seats and upgraded meals. Premium Economy offers more space, priority boarding, and better dining without a huge price jump. Even in Economy, you’ll get complimentary meals, drinks, and a solid entertainment selection that includes both international titles and German favorites.

Connections are easy through both Frankfurt and Munich, though many travelers prefer Munich for its shorter transfer times and better on-time record. Lufthansa crews are used to handling ski gear and outdoor equipment, and their lounges in both cities offer regional snacks, drinks, and space to relax before the long haul. Immigration and customs are usually efficient, especially if you’re continuing on to smaller cities within the US.

The Miles & More program covers the entire Lufthansa Group, creating flexible earning and redemption opportunities across Europe. Their Senator and HON Circle elite tiers offer substantial benefits including lounge access and upgrade certificates.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Europe
• You may also like: Must-See Attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Best Airlines to Fly to Denver

If you’re still curious about what airlines fly to Denver, here are some common questions that might help you decide.

What is the main airline for Denver, Colorado?

Denver International Airport serves as a hub for several airlines, but Frontier Airlines stands out as Denver’s hometown hero. With its main hub situated in Denver, Frontier offers frequent flights, a plethora of timing options, and often, unbeatable deals for travelers.

How do you get to Denver from the UK?

For travelers looking for flights to Denver from the UK, there are several options to consider:

1. Direct Flights: British Airways offers direct flights from London Heathrow to Denver, providing a straightforward and efficient journey.
2. One-stop Flights: Airlines like Lufthansa and Icelandair offer one-stop flights with layovers in cities like Frankfurt or Reykjavik, respectively. These can sometimes be more affordable and offer a chance for a mini-vacation in the layover city.
3. Multiple Airlines: Consider booking legs of your journey with different airlines. For instance, fly to a major European hub with one airline and then catch a direct flight to Denver with another.

What is the cheapest time to fly to Denver?

The off-peak seasons, particularly late spring (April to early June) and early fall (September to early November), tend to offer the most affordable fares. During these times, you can enjoy the beauty of Denver without the tourist crowds and with the added bonus of cheaper flight tickets.

It is at these times where accommodations in Denver offer great deals. Central Business District, for example, is close to major attractions and offers a range of Denver hotels from luxury to budget-friendly.

The best part? With a little bit of research and flexibility, you can find amazing deals on the cheapest places to fly from Denver. From the sunny beaches of Orlando to the world-famous casinos of Las Vegas, the cheapest vacations from Denver include some of the most popular tourist spots in the continental US.

Does Delta fly direct from London to Denver?

As of the last update, Delta does not operate direct flights from London to Denver. However, they do offer flights with connections in their major hubs, such as Atlanta or Minneapolis.

Which airline is better to fly to Denver: United or Delta?

Both airlines have their strengths, but here’s a comparison to help you decide which airline to fly to Denver:

• United:
  • Main hub in Denver, ensuring frequent flights and more timing options.
  • Offers a range of cabin classes, from basic economy to Polaris Business.
  • Strong domestic network for onward connections from Denver.
    
• Delta:
  • Known for its excellent in-flight service and amenities.
  • Operates modern and comfortable aircraft.
  • Offers the SkyMiles program, which can be lucrative for frequent flyers.

What is the most popular airline in Denver?

United Airlines is the most popular airline in Denver in terms of the total number of flights and overall presence. It has expanded its role as Denver’s most flown airline, adding more flights, routes, and gates in 2025.

Denver-based Frontier Airlines, on the other hand, also has a significant presence in Denver. Though due to its reputation as a budget airline, it rarely ranks in any best airline lists.

How can I find cheap flights to Denver?

Finding affordable flights to Denver requires a mix of strategy and luck. Here are ten tips to help you snag a deal:

1. Flexibility: Be flexible with your travel dates. Mid-week flights often tend to be cheaper.
2. Use Incognito Mode: When searching for flights, use incognito mode to avoid price hikes based on your browsing history.
3. Flight Comparison Websites: Use platforms like Skyscanner or Kayak to compare fares across various airlines.
4. Set Fare Alerts: Websites like Google Flights allow you to set fare alerts for specific routes.
5. Book in Advance: While last-minute deals can be found, booking a few months in advance often yields better prices.
6. Consider Nearby Airports: Sometimes flying into a nearby airport and then taking ground transport can be cheaper.
7. Use Airline Miles: If you have accumulated airline miles, consider using them to offset the cost.
8. Travel Light: Some airlines offer cheaper fares if you don’t check in luggage.
9. Off-Peak Hours: Flights during off-peak hours, like early morning or late night, might be more affordable.
10. Subscribe to Newsletters: Consider subscribing to newsletters like Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). They also alert subscribers to flight deals and error fares.

What airlines have Denver as a hub?

Denver International Airport (DEN) serves as a hub for the following airlines:

1. United Airlines – Denver International Airport (DEN) is one of the major hubs for United Airlines.
2. Southwest Airlines – While Southwest doesn’t traditionally use the term “hub,” Denver International Airport (DEN) is one of their significant operating bases.

These airlines have a substantial presence at Denver International Airport, offering numerous routes and frequent flights. If you’re flying in or out of Denver, these airlines provide a wide range of options for both domestic and international destinations. Safe travels!

Final Thoughts on the Best Airlines to Fly to Denver, CO

Denver, with its majestic Rocky Mountains and vibrant urban scene, beckons travelers from all corners of the globe. Choosing the right airline to Denver can make all the difference in starting your adventure on the right foot. From the luxury of British Airways to the budget-friendly options of Frontier, there’s an airline tailored to every traveler’s needs and preferences.

For those on the hunt for the best deals, staying vigilant is also key. Subscribing to newsletters, setting fare alerts, and being flexible with travel dates can lead to significant savings. Remember, the journey to Denver isn’t just about reaching the destination; it’s also bout the entire flying experience. The right airline can offer comfort, entertainment, and a taste of what awaits in the Mile-High City, even before you land.

In the ever-evolving world of travel, staying informed and open to new options can unlock doors to incredible experiences. Denver awaits, and with the insights from this guide, you’re well-equipped to make an informed choice. This ensures your trip is memorable from takeoff to touchdown.