ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Asheville Regional Airport just keeps getting busier and busier. That’s why a new security screening lane has been installed to meet the growing needs of the state’s third busiest commercial service airport.

In a press release, the airport said it had already experienced two record-breaking days this summer with over 6,400 passengers screened in one day.

To cut down on waiting times, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) began installing a fourth security screening lane on July 22 and it’s now fully operational.

IMAGINE THE FUTURE IN ASHEVILLE AIRPORT’S HARD HAT ZONE

“Our TSA officers are looking forward to working in the new space where they will have a larger area to carry out their important security duties,” said TSA North Carolina spokesperson Dan Velez in a press release.

During the airport’s busiest routine day, TSA normally screens more than 5,800 people.

“This couldn’t come at a better time,” said Asheville Regional Airport President and CEO Lew Bleiweis in a press release. “The growth is real at AVL, and we’ve exceeded our record passenger numbers from 2023 every month this year so far. Our security lines were at capacity. TSA has seen our growth and responded to ensure our passengers can move through screening more quickly.”

PREPARE FOR TAKEOFF: TIPS FOR A BUSY TRAVEL SEASON

The new lane features a Computed Tomography (CT) X-Ray machine, which provides TSA officers the ability to rotate the X-ray image on screen for a more thorough visual image analysis. This, in turn, means TSA officers can resolve potential security threats on screen, reducing the number of bag checks. This also means travelers can leave their laptops and other electronic devices in their carry-on bags along with their small 3-1-1 liquids.

All passengers should plan ahead and pack properly to prevent delays during the screening process, the airport said. The TSA has a list of prohibited items on their website HERE.

CLICK HERE for more information from the airport.