Airport Report: Security and amenities continue to be enhanced

Airports are still intent on boosting security while also upgrading passenger amenities in order to enhance the travel experience. The following are just some of the latest changes and improvements customers will find in the future. 

Dallas: The Transportation Security Administration is now using robotic carts for baggage screening at Dallas Love Field. The carts will expedite the screening process by cutting down on backups caused when luggage requiring extra screening is detected. Meanwhile, American Airlines will launch a major new renovation project at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. The Terminal E project will bring 15 new gates designed especially for regional jet usage along with other amenity upgrades aimed at elevating the customer experience.

Denver: A new American Express Centurion Lounge is slated to open by the end of the year. The 14,000-square-foot upscale lounge will be located in Concourse C.

Orlando: After successful tests at select airports around the country, funding was approved so that the U.S. Customs and Border Protection can deploy its biometric entry and exit program at Orlando International Airport across 30 gates with international departures and CBP checkpoints. The program uses cameras to match passengers with data collected by the CBP. Orlando International will be the first U.S. airport to fully implement the CBP biometric program.

Osaka: The JAP Diamond Premier Lounge and Sakura Lounge will both undergo extensive renovations at Osaka International Airport. Construction will begin in late May and will last about a year. JAL Diamond Premier Lounge will be temporarily relocated to the current Sakura Lounge while an alternate location will be designated for the Sakura Lounge.

San Francisco: United plans to open its new Polaris Lounge on April 30. Among the amenities, passengers can sit down for a complete dinner prior to boarding in order to maximize sleep time once on board.