The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have partnered to open two 50,000-square-foot security checkpoint buildings at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) this week.

Inside the buildings, 23 screening lanes will replace the airport’s existing 20 screening lanes, with the ability to expand to 28 lanes. 

“The checkpoints... allow TSA officers to process travelers more comfortably and efficiently than previous space limitations allowed,” said Scott T. Johnson, TSA’s federal security director for the airport. “Additionally, the location of the new checkpoints enables travelers to move between dozens of gates and airport shops, restaurants and other amenities without needing to be re-screened.”

The Virginia airport's new checkpoints aim to decrease wait times for passengers as they complete the required security screening at DCA.