Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) in the US has begun work on improving its security screening area, as part of the SDF Next Program that will see more than US$400 million invested in enhancements to the airport’s Jerry E. Abramson Terminal.
Phase One of the upgrade project includes the relocation of current queuing lanes for both TSA PreCheck and general screening to former retail areas. During this phase temporary queue lines for both TSA PreCheck and general screening will be reduced to a single-file line. This could result in the appearance of longer-than-normal lines with extended wait times; however, the same number of passengers will continue to be screened during constructions.
All Phase One work is due to be complete in early April, in advance of this year’s 150th anniversary of the Kentucky Derby. Additional phases will include the construction of the new security checkpoint facility that will include 10 lanes featuring state-of-the-art technology for passenger screening, significantly increasing throughput capabilities and enhancing efficiencies at SDF.
Commenting on the upgrade, Dan Mann, Executive Director of the Lousiville Regional Airport Authority, said: “It’s important to note, because of the limitations with the terminal’s physical space, while this work is happening the temporary line for the checkpoint will go past the TODAY Store and into the west hall. It does not necessarily mean the wait times for security screening are any longer, but some passengers may have that perception, especially if they do not know about construction. The number of passengers TSA screens will not change because of this work.”
The security checkpoint’s final design approvals are due in the coming months with work beginning towards the end of 2024. These designs follow changes made by airport staff and TSA to expand the checkpoint from five to seven lanes, giving a 40% increase in screening capabilities during peak travel periods.
“This is another part of the process as we continue investing in a better passenger experience at SDF,” added Mann. “Just as it’s been with other major SDF Next Projects from installing brand new baggage handling systems in baggage claim, overhauling our rental car facility, utlilising geothermal technology to heat and cool the terminal to upgrading numerous mechanical systems – all this is happening so travellers at SDF have a best-in class experience.”
