United Airlines Security Screening Checkpoint Reconfiguration Project at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

United Airlines commissioned PGAL to create a single, integrated Security Screening Checkpoint (SSCP) at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to address operational challenges and achieve more efficient, secure, and flexible operation.

Terminal C at EWR was designed in the early 1970’s; the terminal has evolved and modernized over that time, but had four separate TSA security checkpoints. This separation placed a strain on operations during peak times as TSA resources could not be readily shared and shifted to meet the changing passenger flow demands, causing delays, excessive queuing, and potential security risks.

During the design phase, United requested that the legacy TSA equipment be replaced with new, state-of-the-art Automated Screening Lanes (ASL’s) which have faster passenger processing rates, and create a more efficient screening process for both passengers and TSA staff. The final design has 19 screening lanes, 17 ASL’s, and two legacy screening lanes for out-of-gauge items such as strollers and wheelchairs.

The project also provided additional passenger queuing space adjacent to the SSCP, provided additional meeting space for United staff in the Liberty Conference Room, and relocated the existing Global Services passenger suite to the top level of ticketing.

The architectural design for the SSCP focused on improving the passenger experience at Terminal C. A new suspended ceiling, LED lighting, and terrazzo flooring provides a simple and modern design, and new stainless-steel cladding for the existing columns and walls enhance durability in these heavily trafficked areas.

On-going operations could not be compromised, so a multi-phase strategy was used to limit the impact of the construction on passengers, staff, and the TSA.