Washington Dulles welcomes passengers with improved security and customs areas

October 19, 3:26 PMDC Airlines/Airport ExaminerIan Fitzpatrick

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If you have not flown out of Washington Dulles International Airport recently, some recently completed capital projects should make your next trip less of a hassle.

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, owner and operator of Dulles, has opened a new Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening area, a marked improvement over the former screening area.  The 121,700 square foot facility is located in a new, underground mezzanine level behind the original main terminal at Dulles.

Part of the Dulles Redevelopment capital construction program—also known as D2—the new TSA screening area is accessible to departing passengers on the main departure level and through two entrances near baggage claim areas #4 and #12.  Also, Dulles Diamond travelers may continue to use the entrance near baggage claim #8 for access to the new security mezzanine.  This new area will allow passengers to go directly to the new AeroTrain underground people-mover, which is set to open later this year.

Returning to Dulles from an overseas’ trip should be easier as well thanks to a newly-expanded International Arrivals Building (IAB).  The first phase of a 206,000 square foot expansion to the IAB is now open, providing 50 inspection stations for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and a new parking area for the mobile lounges.  With an expanded baggage claim area and restrooms set to open by 2011, the expansion will allow CBP to process 2,400 international arrivals—double the current capacity.

Catch Ian on the Travel’n On Radio Show each week for the latest travel news and information.