Ground Delay at Denver International Airport: High Winds Cause Major Flight Chaos – Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Published on December 18, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Today, Ground Delay at Denver International Airport has caused significant disruptions due to high winds, creating a new wave of flight chaos in the U.S. The high winds sweeping across Denver have forced the FAA to implement a ground delay program, affecting both arriving and departing flights. These extreme wind conditions have caused major delays across the airport, adding more stress for travelers trying to navigate the situation.

Flight chaos has already resulted in over 20 delayed flights, with some cancellations reported. With high winds expected to continue, the situation at Denver International Airport may worsen, causing further delays throughout the day. Travelers planning to fly through DEN today should stay informed as conditions change. Read on to learn more about the ongoing flight chaos and how these high winds are impacting operations at Denver International Airport today.

High Winds Cause Ground Delay at Denver International Airport: What You Need to Know

Denver International Airport (DEN) is facing serious disruption today, as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a ground delay due to high winds. This weather disruption is part of the First Alert Weather Day and the red flag warnings issued across Colorado’s Front Range, warning of extreme wind conditions that could gust up to 90 mph. According to the FAA’s airport event database, the delay impacts all arriving and departing flights. As of 3:20 p.m. MST, FlightAware reports 21 delayed flights and one cancellation. While the average delay is currently 74 minutes, these figures are expected to change as conditions continue to evolve. The situation is expected to worsen before it gets better. Here’s everything you need to know about today’s ground delay at Denver International Airport, including what you can expect if you’re travelling through or from Denver today.

Ground Delay Issued at 5 p.m. Due to High Winds in Denver

At 5 p.m. MST today, Denver International Airport officially began experiencing ground delays due to severe high winds. The FAA took this precautionary step after assessing the risks to aircraft safety during take-offs and landings. High winds, especially gusts reaching 60 to 90 mph, have been sweeping through Colorado’s Front Range, impacting not only Denver International but many parts of the I-25 corridor. The National Weather Service issued a high wind warning for the mountains and foothills. These winds are not only dangerous but can severely disrupt flight schedules. As of 3:20 p.m., 21 flights were already delayed with one cancellation. Travelers should expect continued disruptions as conditions worsen, potentially leading to further cancellations and delays later in the day.

What Are the Impacts of High Winds on Airport Operations?

When high winds hit an airport, especially one as large as Denver International, it can cause significant delays. Winds over 30 knots (34.5 mph) are often enough to trigger airport ground delay programs (GDPs). At DEN, high winds of 60-90 mph are even more severe, limiting runway capacity and making it unsafe for aircraft to land and take off as usual. The FAA implements ground delays to reduce congestion, slow down flight operations, and ensure passenger safety. With gusty winds and low visibility conditions, this can severely affect airport throughput. The 74-minute delay reported today is just the average, with conditions potentially worsening, especially as even stronger gusts are expected in the coming hours. The FAA’s real-time traffic reports continuously monitor these conditions, adjusting accordingly to manage air traffic flow and flight scheduling. More Details

Why Is Today’s Delay Such a Big Deal for Denver International Airport?

Denver International Airport (DEN) is one of the busiest airports in the United States, processing millions of passengers every year. High winds pose unique challenges for DEN, a hub located in the Rocky Mountain region where wind speeds can often exceed typical limits. Today’s wind-induced ground delay is especially concerning because it comes on a weather-alert day and red flag warnings in the surrounding area. Denver is already known for extreme weather conditions, and wind can turn into a nightmare for both passengers and airport operators. With 21 delayed flights and one cancellation already reported, today’s ground delays will likely continue to impact DEN operations, including security lines, gate availability, and baggage handling. Travelers should prepare for disruptions and possible longer-than-usual waits. Find Out More

How Long Will the Ground Delay Last?

The duration of Denver International Airport’s ground delay depends largely on the evolution of the high wind conditions throughout the day. At 5 p.m. MST, the FAA activated the ground delay to prevent further disruptions, but there is no set end time until conditions improve. Weather reports from the National Weather Service suggest that winds may persist throughout the evening, with gusts continuing at 60-90 mph. The average delay today stands at 74 minutes, but that could rise further if the winds continue to intensify. The FAA’s real-time updates will dictate how the situation develops, potentially leading to more cancellations and further delays as the winds continue. Travelers should stay updated with their flight status by checking the airport’s website or FlightAware for the latest information on delays. Flight Tracking Info

What Should Passengers Do in the Event of a Ground Delay?

If you’re traveling through Denver International Airport today, preparation is key. The high winds and associated delays mean passengers should prepare for possible extended wait times at the airport. Here’s what you should do:

• Check your flight status regularly: Use tools like FlightAware to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight.
• Expect delays or cancellations: It’s important to remain flexible with your travel plans, as the winds may cause more delays or even cancellations later in the day.
• Stay informed: Keep an eye on the FAA’s website for real-time updates on ground delay programs and any ground stop orders.
• Prepare for longer airport time: With more than 20 flights already delayed, you should be ready for longer waits at check-in, security, and gates.

Being prepared can make the difference between an annoying wait and a smooth travel experience during delays. More Info on Ground Delays

The Impact of High Winds on Other U.S. Airports

While Denver International is the main airport affected by high winds today, other airports across the Rocky Mountain region and Northeast U.S. could also experience similar disruptions. High winds have triggered ground delays in major cities like Boston Logan (BOS), Newark (EWR), and Washington D.C. (DCA). The FAA has deployed wind-delay programs at these locations in anticipation of severe weather that could affect arrival and departure slots. As weather systems evolve, delays may spread, and the impact on airport operations can increase significantly. FAA Wind Advisory Updates.

Credit: CBS