TSA Introduces New Security Checkpoint Technology:
RDU expects more than 182,000 passengers to fly through the airport from Thursday, June 30 through Monday, July 4. That number is about 17% higher than the same weekend last year and about 7% below the same weekend in 2019, prior to the pandemic. Thursday marks the busiest travel day of the Independence Day weekend, with more than 40,000 passengers expected. Another 39,000 are expected to fly on Friday, July 1.
Sharp increases in passenger traffic also mean potentially longer wait times this holiday weekend, particularly during the early morning hours. Security checkpoint wait times are increasing as more people return to air travel, especially over busy travel periods such as holiday weekends.
“As travelers take to the skies in numbers we have not seen since 2019, RDU is taking steps to help alleviate wait times at the security checkpoint,” said Michael Landguth, president and CEO of the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority. “We recently added two new lanes to the Terminal 2 checkpoint under one of the first construction projects to resume after the pandemic.”
In addition, TSA has installed new technology at checkpoints in both terminals that will reduce contact and allow passengers to keep more items in their carry-on bags during the screening process.
“The addition of computed tomography screening technology at security checkpoints is a win-win for TSA and passengers,” said Jennifer Gordon, TSA Federal Security Director for RDU. “We get increased screening capability which will lead to fewer bag checks, and passengers can leave electronics and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in their bags when going through the checkpoint.”
The first step toward a hassle-free travel experience is to reserve your parking in advance at ParkRDU.com. Reserving your parking online guarantees entry into the parking facility of your choice and saves you money because ParkRDU.com always offers the lowest available rate.
Guests are encouraged to arrive at RDU two hours before a domestic flight and at least three hours before traveling internationally to ensure a smooth experience. They should also check flight status with their airline prior to arriving at the airport.