10-01-2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Port Columbus Slated To Receive Federal Stimulus Funds for Inline Baggage Screening System

COLUMBUS – Port Columbus International Airport is expected to receive over $35 million in federal stimulus funding for an inline checked baggage screening system that will enhance screening capabilities, accelerate the passenger check-in process and reduce congestion in the airport ticket lobby.

The new system, which will be located away from public circulations areas, will replace five stand-alone screening areas currently located in front of the airline ticket counters. The new system will eliminate the need for passengers to walk their checked baggage to these screening locations before proceeding to their gate. The new system will enhance screening capabilities by reducing the number of rescans and physical bag searches conducted by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel.

The total cost of the project is estimated at $50.9 million dollars with the TSA expected to provide $35.2 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (federal stimulus) funding. The Columbus Regional Airport Authority, which operates Port Columbus, expects to fund the balance of approximately $15.7 million with Passenger Facility Charges (PFCs).

“We are extremely pleased to have been selected to receive federal stimulus funds to complete this important project for our community,” said Elaine Roberts, President & CEO of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority. “The project provides not only enhanced screening capabilities at Port Columbus but also frees our lobby of the large and cumbersome screening stations that have created congestion and limited passenger circulation.”

Planning and design for this project will continue through mid-2010 with the system expected to be operational in late 2011.

Port Columbus International Airport is served by 10 airlines and provides 156 daily departures to 32 airports. Visit www.ColumbusAirports.com to learn more about the airport and its airlines. – END –

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