United Airlines has announced the completion of Phase One of its massive pilot training facility expansion in Denver, solidifying its status as the world's largest. The facility now features 86 flight training devices and can train up to 860 pilots daily, supporting the airline's growing workforce.
The expanded Flight Training Center, spanning nearly 700,000 square feet across eight buildings, has added 40 new CAE training devices since 2022, bringing the total to 52 full-motion and 34 fixed simulators. United Chief Executive Officer Scott Kirby celebrated the milestone, stating, "United pilots are the best aviators in the world, and the pace at which our team has completed this project is an example of making investments that support our high standard of excellence." Matthew Bromberg, CAE's President and CEO, added, "This expansion reflects the strength of a partnership built over more than four decades."
Looking ahead, Phase Two of the expansion is slated to break ground in 2027 on newly rezoned land near Denver International Airport, with operations expected to commence by 2030. This continued investment underscores United's commitment to its fastest-growing hub, which has seen nearly $1 billion in improvements since 2021, including new gates and United Club locations.
The airline's presence in Denver also significantly impacts local employment and economy. United hired over 1,400 people in Denver last year and plans to add 1,300 more in 2026. The training center alone employs more than 1,600 individuals and is projected to generate nearly $50 million in hotel room nights for visiting pilots in 2026. United continues to be a leading employer and operator in the Mile High City, offering service to over 200 destinations.
United has hired more than 9,500 pilots since 2021 and offers various career paths, including the Aviate Program and the United Military Pilot Program, to ensure a steady pipeline of qualified aviators for its expanding global network.