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connection time at airport

Hi, I am looking at a flight from Toronto to Costa Rico, with a connection in Denver. The connection time is 1 hr and 40 minutes. Is that enough time or should I look at a different flight?

Thank you

A 1 hour and 40 minute connection at Denver International Airport (DEN) is generally considered adequate for domestic-to-international flights, but several factors can influence whether this is a comfortable connection time for you.

Consider the following:

  • Same Ticket vs. Separate Tickets: If both flights are on the same ticket and the airline is handling your checked luggage through to Costa Rica, the connection is easier. You won’t need to recheck bags or go through security again.
  • Terminal Changes: Denver International has three concourses (A, B, and C). If your arrival and departure are in different concourses, you may need to take the airport train. Trains run frequently, but you should account for walking time.
  • Security Screening: For international departures, you will go through U.S. Customs pre-clearance if departing Canada, but arriving flights in Denver are domestic. You may need to go through TSA security again depending on gate locations.
  • Flight Delays: Even a short delay on your Toronto-Denver flight could make a tight connection stressful. Denver can also experience weather-related delays in winter.

Tips to ensure a smooth connection:

  • Check your arrival and departure gates in advance to estimate walking time. DEN is a large airport, and gates can be spread out.
  • Use TSA PreCheck if you have it, which can speed up any additional security screening.
  • Stay near the gate area after arrival; follow airport signage to minimize time spent walking.
  • Consider contacting your airline to confirm that 1 hour 40 minutes is sufficient for your specific flights. Airlines sometimes have minimum connection times for international departures.

Summary:

1 hour and 40 minutes is generally adequate for a domestic connection at Denver to an international flight, assuming flights are on the same ticket and you move efficiently between gates. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling during a peak period or winter weather, a slightly longer connection time may provide peace of mind.

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