BWI airport to receive $41.5 million for security checkpoint, baggage system upgrades

BALTIMORE -- Baltimore Washington Thurgood Marshall Airport has announced a $41.5 million funding boost aimed at enhancing security screening checkpoints and upgrading baggage handling systems. This investment will be allocated between two major projects to improve the airport's capacity and efficiency.

The first initiative involves a $5.5 million expansion of the D/E security checkpoint, which is vital for both domestic and international travelers. As the checkpoint often operates at full capacity during peak times, adding two additional lanes will enable the airport to better manage increasing passenger traffic.

The second project, which will receive $36 million, focuses on the international terminal's baggage systems. This will involve replacing outdated baggage handling systems that have been in operation for over 20 years, expanding the baggage screening facilities, and upgrading the baggage claim carousels to enhance the overall passenger experience.

The economic impact of BWI Airport is substantial, contributing $11.3 billion to the Maryland and regional economy while supporting over 107,000 jobs. This expansion and upgrade project aim to bolster this economic significance further by ensuring smoother operations at the airport.

In related news, the Transportation Security Administration reported a concerning rise in the number of firearms detected at BWI Airport checkpoints in 2024, with a record 47 guns intercepted. This figure marks the highest number among the three major airports in the Baltimore/Washington area, underscoring the need for improved security measures alongside the ongoing infrastructure upgrades.