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Denver International Airport (DIA) is set to unveil its latest security enhancement with the opening of the new East Security Checkpoint on Tuesday at 3 a.m. This modernised facility, located on Level 6 in the northeast corner of the terminal, will complement the existing West checkpoint that opened last year[1][2].
The East Security Checkpoint is equipped with 17 advanced screening lanes, featuring the latest Transportation Security Administration (TSA) technology[1]. Key technologies and features include:
- Credential Authentication Technology (CAT-2): 34 units verify traveler identities by matching live photos with IDs in real time[1].
- Automated Screening Lanes (ASLs): These lanes have larger bins, automated conveyor belts, and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags to speed screening and reduce bottlenecks[1].
- Computed Tomography (CT) X-ray Units: Generate detailed 3D images of contents inside bags, allowing travelers to keep electronics and liquids inside bags during screening[1].
- eAIT Body Scanners: Nine open-design millimeter wave scanners that reduce the need for rescans and accommodate travelers with metal implants without compromising security[1].
- Bottle Liquid Scanners: Use laser technology to safely screen medically necessary liquids over typical TSA limits (3.4 ounces) without requiring disposal or confusion[1].
- Explosive Trace Detection (ETD): Swab testing for explosive residues on travelers’ hands or personal items as an added security layer[1].
The checkpoint has three separate entrances tailored to traveler types, with electronic signage directing passengers accordingly[1][2]. This segmentation streamlines the flow and decreases wait times.
The East Security Checkpoint is part of DIA's multi-year Great Hall renovation project aimed at modernising the terminal, reducing wait times, and improving passenger throughput[2]. It replaces the older South Security Checkpoint, which closed permanently, consolidating security in the north section of Level 6 alongside the West checkpoint[2][3].
The new checkpoint provides faster processing, greater capacity (up to 250 passengers per hour per lane), and enhanced security through integrated advanced screening technologies, significantly improving the traveler experience at DIA[2][4].
Other recent changes at DIA include moving some airlines' check-in counters down to Level 5 temporarily for renovation work on the south ends of Level 6[5]. The Living Room is planned for the revamped south end of Level 5, offering passengers a comfortable and modern space to relax[5].
In addition, eight new standard security lanes for international travelers are planned to open on the north end of Level 5 in summer 2026[5]. Four screening lanes are also planned later for the revamped south end of Level 5, to serve passengers arriving from the airport's on-site hotel and the A-Line train from the city[5].
The East security construction budget is $252 million, according to DIA spokesperson Michael Konopasek[6]. DIA was the third-busiest U.S. airport in terms of passenger traffic in 2021, and sixth-busiest in the world, according to Airports Council International[7].
As DIA anticipates surpassing 120 million annual passengers by 2045[8], the improved security checkpoints were designed with a growing number of passengers in mind.
For updates on Colorado's top stories, subscribe to the Mile High Roundup email newsletter[9]. Starting Tuesday, the A-Bridge walkway between the terminal and Concourse A will officially open for both arriving and departing passengers[10].
[1] https://www.dia.org/security [2] https://www.dia.org/great-hall [3] https://www.dia.org/press-releases/2023/01/15/diapressrelease [4] https://www.dia.org/security/east-security-checkpoint [5] https://www.dia.org/great-hall/construction-updates [6] https://www.denverpost.com/2023/01/10/denver-international-airport-east-security-checkpoint-cost/ [7] https://www.airports.org/-/media/files/research-and-data/annual-reports/world-airports-traffic-report-2021.pdf [8] https://www.dia.org/about-dia/facts-and-figures [9] https://www.milehighroundup.com/ [10] https://www.dia.org/travel-information/getting-around/abridge
- The new East Security Checkpoint at Denver International Airport (DIA) boasts advanced TSA technology, such as Credential Authentication Technology (CAT-2), Automated Screening Lanes (ASLs), CT X-ray Units, eAIT Body Scanners, Bottle Liquid Scanners, and Explosive Trace Detection (ETD).
- The East Security Checkpoint, part of DIA's ongoing Great Hall renovation project, offers faster processing, greater capacity, and enhanced security, catering to the growing number of passengers expected at the airport.
- The multi-year Great Hall project at DIA aims to modernize the terminal, reduce wait times, and improve passenger throughput by installing state-of-the-art screening technologies like the East Security Checkpoint.
- The East Security Checkpoint's integrated advanced technologies, such as CAT-2, ASLs, CT X-ray Units, eAIT Body Scanners, Bottle Liquid Scanners, and ETD, contribute to the airport's goal of providing a more efficient and secure travel experience for its passengers.
