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Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Set For BWI Terminal Improvements

LINTHICUM, Md. (WJZ) — After months of construction - a multi-million-dollar concourse connection debuts at BWI just in time for the Thanksgiving rush.

The airport has had 15 months in a row with record setting numbers so it was crucial to make sure the concourse was finished in time for Thanksgiving, the busiest time of the year.

The addition is meant to cause passengers less traveling stress and ease their experience.

From the outside, BWI's massive concourse connection might look typical, but the $100 million plus addition is far from ordinary.

"It's incredible and I think it's going to be a great experience for passengers," said Maryland Governor Larry Hogan.

An experience that links the D and E concourse and is designed to handle an increase the airport has seen with international traffic, while still accommodating domestic traffic.

"We're the number one airport in the Baltimore Washington region, which not everyone knows," said Hogan.

Beyond a new eight lane checkpoint, there's a modern feel at BWI as a slew of new restaurants and vendors such as Steak n Shake bolster the dining options.

"People want to be a part of something that they see as positive," said Ricky Smith, the executive director and CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration.

Along with an outdoor patio to watch flights, it's all part of a new look.

"It always seems to be a little different and a little bit better," said Kelsey Baird, a traveler from western Maryland.

The entire checkpoint is expected to be finished by spring, which is a huge boost for an airport that continues to see record numbers.

BWI has grown rapidly over the years, now handling more than 65,000 travelers daily. This year, they're already approaching a new record of 25 million travelers.

"Our passenger traffic continues to grow, we continue to set records," said Johnathan Dean.

"I can't tell you today where it's going to end, because we're so optimistic about what's to come," said Smith.

Obviously with the Thanksgiving rush, the airport is urging travelers to arrive at least 2 hours early for their flights this week and to take a look at the new addition and experience it first hand.

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