As part of a mission to increase capacity in a secure and efficient manner, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona has become the first commercial airport in the US’s southwest to install a fully-automated exit lane for arriving passengers.
“We are happy to find innovative ways to serve more passengers and improve on the hassle-free experience that travellers have come to expect at Gateway Airport,” said Jenn Daniels, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority chairperson.
The airport served nearly 1.4 million passengers in 2017, its second best year on record. The growth is attributed to 11 new routes launched by Allegiant Air and WestJet and by adding a fully-automated exit lane, airport management hopes to better serve the growing number of travellers choosing to fly from Gateway Airport
In addition to the automated exit lane Gateway Airport has expanded the TSA Security Screening Checkpoint lane, which will provide a larger, more efficient passenger queuing system.
“These projects were finished just in time for the busy spring travel season and were completed without any passenger disruptions,” added Daniels.
DWL Architects, DPR Construction and dormakaba (the global security group) were tasked with the design and construction of both projects, which were completed under budget and earlier than expected.
Explaining how both initiatives will enhance the passenger experience at the airport, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority’s executive director and CEO, J.Brian O’Neill stated:” These projects provide enhanced security, increased efficiency, and a better overall passenger experience.”
