DENVER (KDVR) — Hundreds of flights were delayed at Denver International Airport on Sunday as heavy snowfall across the country and a rush of holiday travel slowed operations on one of the busiest travel days of the season.
Airport officials said passenger traffic was high as travelers returned home from holiday celebrations, while others arrived in Denver ahead of New Year’s festivities. There were long lines throughout the airport, from parked shuttles to baggage checkpoints and security checkpoints.
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Security check wait times peaked at about 30 minutes on Sunday morning. While most travelers didn’t experience major problems waiting in line, at least one passenger said delays caused her to miss her flight.
“I couldn’t get through security, but I had a really nice guy change my flight,” said Kelly Marlor, who was traveling on Sunday.
FlightAware reported that as of 2 p.m., more than 480 flights at Denver International Airport were delayed or canceled, and some passengers also encountered flight turbulence due to windy weather.
“It was a really bad turbulence,” said Sonya Rosenberg, who was visiting friends in Denver. “They can’t even serve us a drink or a snack on our flight, but that’s okay. We do it here. So that’s all that matters.”
Despite the crowds, many travelers said they expected delays and were prepared for extra time. Travelers who spoke to FOX31 said busy airports are a small price to pay after spending the holidays with loved ones.
“It’s fun,” said Patricia Cunningham, who was returning home to Albuquerque after visiting her children over Christmas. “It’s been unseasonably warm, but we woke up to a little bit of snow today, so that’s good.”
Outside the terminal, friends and family greeted arriving passengers and a reunion was staged. Risa Nutt and Samantha Friedberg said they were picking up friends they met from summer camp and planned to spend the New Year together in Denver.
“We’re spending New Year’s together, so we’re taking them to all the iconic places,” Nutt said.
Airport officials estimate more than 750,000 passengers passed through Denver International Airport from Dec. 19 through Sunday.
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