Historical update: the checkpoint expansion described here opened in 2021. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport’s security project changed how travelers reached the airport’s main gate areas. An earlier version of this article described 15 lanes and suggested that all passengers could keep shoes on and liquids in their bags. That did not accurately describe the project or establish universal screening rules.
What the airport actually opened
The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority announced two new checkpoint buildings with 23 screening lanes initially and space for expansion to 28. The airport’s opening announcement explains that the project brought National Hall into the area beyond security and gave passengers access to more concessions and connections between the main gate areas.
The terminal and gate names used in historical maps can differ from today’s names. Use the airport’s current information and your boarding pass when finding the right check-in area, checkpoint and gate. An old announcement is useful for understanding the expansion, not for confirming today’s operating hours or airline locations.
Screening technology does not replace instructions
Requirements can vary with the lane, equipment, screening program and item. Follow the officer’s directions at the checkpoint instead of assuming a rule from a different airport applies. For liquids in ordinary carry-on screening, consult the current TSA liquids guidance, including the separate treatment of medically necessary items and other exceptions.
Plan the whole airport visit
Check your airline’s recommended arrival time, bag-drop deadlines and identification requirements before traveling. Leave time for getting from the station or parking area to the terminal, checking bags and reaching the gate after screening. A larger checkpoint helps capacity, but does not guarantee that a particular passenger will encounter no line.
The lasting benefit of the project is a more connected passenger area. Treat claims about today’s speed or procedures as information to verify for your trip. Photograph credit: @dadikaram.