BWI Airport to Receive $10 Million from TSA

    March 8, 2005
    Funding will be for in-line explosives detection system

    Source Comtex Government via NewsEdge Corporation

    BWI AIRPORT, Md. -- Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. announced today that the federal Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has allocated $10 million to offset the costs of a new, state-of-the-art, in-line baggage screening system at Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI). The in-line explosives detection system (in-line EDS) is being installed in the Airport's new Terminal A/B facility, which is scheduled to open this spring.

    "This funding will ensure that BWI remains on the cutting edge of technology to make baggage screening more accurate and more convenient," said Gov. Ehrlich. "The in-line EDS technology provides the highest levels of security and customer service. The State of Maryland acknowledges and thanks TSA for this important investment, and we appreciate the Maryland congressional delegation for their assistance in obtaining these funds."

    The Ehrlich Administration, the Maryland congressional delegation, Southwest Airlines, and BWI have worked together for a number of months to obtain the TSA resources. The funding announced today will be used for security costs related to the construction of the new Terminal A/B facility at BWI, which will be utilized by Southwest Airlines.

    In-line EDS technology enhances security and provides for the quick and accurate processing of baggage. The system allows for faster processing than manual screening, thus maximizing the utilization and effectiveness of the equipment. The Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA) worked closely with TSA to design the Terminal A/B facility to accommodate the in-line EDS technology.

    "This technology enhances the ability to screen all checked luggage for explosives," said Dennis Schrader, director of the Governor's Office of Homeland Security. "At BWI, we are consistently working to combine the highest levels of security and passenger safety with outstanding customer service. We look forward to working with TSA to implement the in-line EDS equipment, as well as other new security technologies and procedures."