At around 4 a.m. this morning, passengers on an American Airlines flight from Rio de Janiero, Brazil were among the first to see Miami International Airport’s new international arrivals facility. This state-of-the-art facility is the latest phase of the airport’s North Terminal improvement project. International passengers on American Airlines and other airlines coming into Concourses D, E, and F have access to the tri-level center, which encompasses 400,000 square feet of space.
Among the highlights of the new facility is the passport control center – an area with 72 processing lanes. This now makes it possible to process about 2,000 international travelers an hour. This promises to cut the typical wait times considerably.
Miami International Airport is now one of the only airports in the nation with six lanes specifically designed for members of the Global Entry program. This program provides faster processing for travelers who have previously registered with United States Customs and Border Control.
Two well-known complications of airline travel is baggage claim and getting to connecting flights. These issues can cause more extended delays for international travelers. The new international arrivals facility alleviates both complications.
The second-level baggage claim area houses five baggage claim carousels, providing ample space and expediting the baggage retrieval process for incoming passengers. The new facility is adjacent to the Concourse D sky train; international travelers can quickly access the train to get to other gates for connecting flights. On Level 1 is a spacious greeting lobby for waiting family and friends.
Airport officials report that MIA is now the top airport in the nation for international flights. Miami International Airport boasts almost 1,300 international flights per week, flying to 85 international destinations. The airport serves as the point of entry for more than 95 percent of travelers coming to Miami.
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New $180 Million International Arrivals Facility Opens at MIA:
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New International Arrivals Facility Serving American Airlines Customers Opens at Miami International Airport:
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