Philadelphia Airport Unveils New Exit Lanes
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) has debuted a new exit lane system at Terminal D. It is the first in the airport’s upgraded unmanned exit lane system project. Installation of the…
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) has debuted a new exit lane system at Terminal D. It is the first in the airport's upgraded unmanned exit lane system project. Installation of the exit lanes was completed through a $600,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
According to the airport, PHL began conducting terminal security improvements and operational efficiency upgrades by first completing a study of all exit lanes throughout the terminals. Based on the study's results, the airport began a multi-phase plan to upgrade the exit doors throughout the airport.
The airport's unmanned exit lane initiative involved the following components:
- Structural adjustments
- Physical dimension upgrades
- Exit lane system improvements
- Replacements for the existing exit lane gate system
- Installation of the new secure exit lane system
These improvements support a secure exit from the airport even when TSA officers are not present at their posts. According to the airport, the new technology automatically secures access points, identifies security breaches, and initiates immediate lockdown procedures.
“This project is one of the major upgrades we're implementing as we prepare for the 2026 events,” said Chief Capital Development Officer Api Appulingam. “As part of our $500 million capital program, these high-tech doors will create a smoother, more welcoming experience for our guests as they exit the terminals and begin their Philadelphia journey.”
This state-of-the-art security system consists of four new Dormakaba unmanned exit lanes. The new system has been designed to work seamlessly with the airport's existing access control and surveillance systems.
Dormakaba consists of a state-of-the-art, modular three-part secure glass corridor system that contains multiple doors. The corridor system enables passengers to safely move from the airport's secure gate area to nonsecured areas, including baggage claim and airport exits.
Terminals D and E were selected for Phase 1 of the Unmanned Exit Lane Program. Terminal D was the first to be completed and is now fully operational. Construction in Terminal E is on track for completion by December. Terminal F will be upgraded in Phase 2 of the program, and the remaining terminals will be upgraded in the program's successive phases.
The project's estimated budget is $8 million.
