Southwest expands cargo facility at Denver airport

DENVER — Southwest Airlines Co. has opened a significantly expanded cargo facility at Denver International Airport, nearly doubling its previous footprint in a move that underscores the carrier’s long-term investment in its busiest market.

The new facility spans nearly 30,000 square feet and includes six loading docks, large storage areas and double the refrigerated space previously available. The expansion is designed to improve efficiency and customer service for Southwest Cargo customers in the Denver area.

“The new Southwest Airlines Cargo facility at Denver International Airport exemplifies our commitment to serve our customers in the Denver region and beyond,” said Brian Kilburn, vice president of cargo, provisioning and ground support equipment. “Southwest Cargo is more than moving freight — we are connecting Denver-area businesses to the global economy.”

Denver is Southwest’s busiest hub, with nearly 300 daily flights during peak travel periods to more than 90 North American destinations. The enhanced cargo space is expected to accelerate freight handling and benefit businesses that rely on quick and dependable service.
Denver International Airport CEO Phil Washington called the expansion a testament to the airline’s growing presence at the airport.
“Now, beyond passenger travel, the opening of an expanded cargo facility showcases an even greater commitment and bond between Southwest Airlines and DEN,” Washington said.

To celebrate the opening, Southwest Cargo is offering shippers up to two times Rapid Rewards points on cargo shipments to or from Denver through Dec. 31. Details are available at ship.swacargo.com/Denver2Xpromo.

“This facility represents more than growth for Southwest — it’s a boost for Colorado’s entire business community,” said Raymond H. Gonzales, president of the Metro Denver EDC and executive vice president of the Denver Metro Chamber. “Faster, more reliable cargo access strengthens our supply chain, empowers small businesses and fuels economic competitiveness.”

The new cargo facility is part of a broader investment strategy by Southwest in the Denver area. Earlier this month, the airline opened an off-airport training center in the Colorado Aerotropolis and is preparing to launch a 100,000-square-foot general use building that will house its provisioning and ground support teams. In 2022, Southwest opened a maintenance hangar at DEN to support its technical operations in the western U.S.

Ethan Walton, project director at McCarthy Building Companies, credited the successful completion of the cargo project to collaboration between Southwest and its design and construction partners, including Woolpert and Burns & McDonnell.
“We’re honored to have delivered infrastructure that directly supports one of the fastest-growing hubs in the country and enables continued operational excellence at DEN,” Walton said.