Arrival & Customs

Colorado Springs is served by Colorado Springs Airport (COS). Most international visitors will arrive first at a major U.S. hub (often Denver International Airport, DEN) and then continue to Colorado Springs by air or ground transportation.

Major airlines flying directly into DEN from Europe include: United Airlines (Frankfurt, London, Munich), Lufthansa (Munich), Air France (Paris), Turkish Airlines (Istanbul), and Aer Lingus (Dublin).

Arrival at a Glance

  • International arrivals: immigration → baggage claim → customs → re-check bags (if connecting)
  • DEN → Colorado Springs: fly to COS or travel by shuttle / private car / rental car
  • Planning tip: choose an itinerary with a comfortable connection window at your first U.S. airport

Arrival by Plane (Any Hub)

International arrivals: what to expect

If you are entering the United States from abroad, you will complete U.S. entry procedures at your first U.S. airport (even if you have a connecting flight onward to Denver or Colorado Springs).

  1. Immigration / passport control: present your passport and required entry documents.
  2. Baggage claim: collect any checked luggage.
  3. Customs screening: proceed through customs after collecting your bags.
  4. Re-check baggage: if you have a domestic connection, you will typically re-check checked bags before going to your next gate.
Allow extra time: processing times vary. If you have an onward flight after arriving in the U.S., choose an itinerary with a comfortable connection window.

Arriving at Denver International Airport (DEN)

Denver International Airport (DEN) is the most common gateway for WOCF 2026 visitors. From DEN you can continue to Colorado Springs by flight or by ground transportation.

Flying into Colorado Springs Airport (COS)

Colorado Springs Airport (COS) is served by several major airlines. If you can fly directly to COS, you may save ground-travel time.

  • If connecting after an international arrival, remember you may need to claim/re-check baggage at your first U.S. airport.
  • (Optional) We can list the airlines once you confirm which ones you want shown (or we can keep the official link only).

Ground Transportation: DEN → Colorado Springs

Shared Shuttle (Groome Transportation)

Groome Transportation operates scheduled shared-ride service between Denver International Airport (DEN) and Colorado Springs, with multiple daily trips and advance reservations recommended.

  • Typical fare: about $55 one-way (route-dependent)
  • DEN pickup: East Side of baggage claim — exit through Door 505, then go to Island 5 under the “Shared Ride Shuttle” sign
  • Phone (Colorado Springs office): 719-687-3456
  • Stops: The Antlers Hotel is a regular stop (very convenient for WOCF visitors)

View schedule / fares / stops

Rental Car (Drive)

Renting a car is a flexible option, especially if you plan to explore Colorado Springs and nearby attractions.

  • Typical drive time (DEN → Colorado Springs): about 1 hour 20 minutes (traffic/weather can change this)
  • Route: generally I-25 South toward Colorado Springs
Weather note: conditions can change quickly in Colorado—check forecasts and road conditions in winter or during storms.

Private Car / Limo (Direct Transfer)

Private car service is ideal for groups, travelers with heavy luggage, or anyone who prefers door-to-door service.

Option 1: Denver Car Services (example rates)

  • Phone: 303-667-4250
  • Sample rate (Sedan): $225–$245 (DIA ↔ Colorado Springs)
  • Sample rate (10/14-pass van): $345 (DIA ↔ Colorado Springs)

Rates page

Option 2: Blue Sky Limo (private SUV shuttle example)

  • Phone: 970-376-7849
  • Published starting rate: $495 (up to 6 passengers; surcharges may apply)
  • Pickup note: chauffeur meet point details are provided on their site

Service details

Note: Prices vary by season, vehicle, time of day, and availability—confirm your quote when booking.

Customs

Entry into the United States is governed by the rules and procedures of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Customs regulations, documentation requirements, and enforcement practices may change, sometimes with little notice.

For this reason, the WOCF Organizing Committee does not provide customs or import advice to attendees and cannot advise on the declaration, valuation, or admissibility of personal or commercial material.

Philatelic and Collectible Material (General Information)

In general terms, philatelic material is duty free under U.S. tariff schedules. Please refer to the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for additional information.

Customs Brokers (Optional)

Attendees who prefer professional assistance may choose to consult a licensed U.S. customs broker, particularly when traveling with high-value items or commercial material.

Listing a broker does not imply endorsement. Attendees are responsible for selecting and engaging any professional services.

Important notice:
Customs determinations are made solely by U.S. authorities at the time of entry. The WOCF Organizing Committee cannot intervene in customs matters and cannot be held responsible for changes in regulations, individual determinations, or any costs, delays, or losses that may arise.