Anticipating continued commercial passenger growth, Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport (Gateway Airport) recently completed two passenger terminal projects designed to increase capacity in an efficient and secure manner. The expanded TSA Security Screening Checkpoint provides a larger, more efficient passenger queuing system, while adding a fifth security checkpoint lane and capacity for a future sixth lane.
Gateway Airport also became the first commercial airport in the Southwest to install a fully-automated exit lane for arriving passengers. This new system fortifies security and enables human resources to be redeployed to other terminal functions while maintaining a safe and efficient exiting system.
“We are happy to find innovative ways to serve more passengers and improve on the hassle-free experience that travelers have come to expect at Gateway Airport,” said Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority Chair Jenn Daniels. “These projects were finished just in time for the busy spring travel season and were completed without any passenger disruptions.”
Gateway Airport partnered with DWL Architects, DPR Construction and dormakaba for design and construction of both projects. Work occurred during off hours to prevent any customer disruptions; and was completed earlier than anticipated and under budget.
The dormakaba Exit Lane Breach Control (ELBC) system was selected due to its modularity and “smart technology” interface which optimizes airport operations. Replacing guards with technology not only eliminated the possibility of human error, it has proven to offer more control, airside protection against security breaches and substantial cost savings without compromising passenger safety.
“Expanding our TSA Security Screening Checkpoint and adding a new fully-automated exit lane enables us to better serve the growing number of air travelers choosing Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport”, said Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority Executive Director/CEO J. Brian O’Neill, A.A.E. “These projects provide enhanced security, increased efficiency, and a better overall passenger experience.”
Gateway Airport served nearly 1.4 million passengers in 2017, the second-best year on record. This growth is attributed to 11 new routes launched by Allegiant Air and WestJet during the year.