Southwest Airlines (WN) inaugurated its new cargo facility at Denver International Airport (DEN) on June 5, 2025, doubling its cargo capacity at one of the fastest-growing aviation hubs in the United States. This strategic investment reflects the airline’s commitment not only to passenger service but also to contributing significantly to regional economic growth.
2,800 m² Facility Supports 300 Daily Flights
The new cargo center, featuring a 2,800-square-metre warehouse and six loading docks, aims to eliminate existing bottlenecks in Southwest’s air cargo operations in Denver. With the airline operating close to 300 flights daily during peak seasons, the expanded capacity enables simultaneous and more efficient loading and unloading processes.
Southwest has also doubled its temperature-controlled storage space to meet rising demand for sensitive cargo.
“Integrated Growth with the Regional Economy”
Brian Kilburn, Vice President of Cargo, Supply Chain, and Ground Support Equipment at Southwest Airlines, emphasised that the facility will help Denver-based businesses connect more easily with global markets. Phil Washington, CEO of Denver International Airport, noted that Southwest is one of DEN’s largest carriers, serving more than 90 destinations across North America.
Raymond H. Gonzales, President of Metro Denver EDC, added that the new facility enhances Colorado’s supply chain resilience, supports SMEs, and provides a competitive edge to local industries.
Double Points Promotion as Incentive
To encourage use of the expanded capacity, Southwest launched a special promotion: shippers sending cargo to or from Denver will earn double points in the Rapid Rewards programme through 31 December 2025.
Ongoing Infrastructure and Training Investments
The cargo expansion is part of a larger infrastructure growth strategy in Denver. In early June 2025, Southwest opened an off-airport crew training centre in the Colorado Aerotropolis area, following the launch of its western region maintenance hangar in 2022.
In the coming weeks, Southwest also plans to complete a 100,000-square-foot general use building, housing support facilities and a ground support equipment centre as part of its broader Denver investment.
Ethan Walton, Project Director at McCarthy Building Companies, noted that the construction was carried out in coordination with design partner Burns & McDonnell and technical consultants. The project represents a new-generation approach to air cargo infrastructure.
