NORFOLK, Va. — Norfolk International Airport (ORF) executives hope to provide an easier screening process for international travelers.
U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine along with Rep. Bobby Scott announced $6 million in federal funding to build a new Federal Inspection Service (FIS) international arrivals facility at the airport. U.S. Customs and Border Protection uses it.
"To screen passengers who are arriving from international destinations,” said Norfolk Airport Authority Executive Vice President Steve Sterling.
It will also process cargo and agricultural products to meet U.S. Customs and Border Protection requirements. Sterling said the airport’s current facility is outdated.
“It is on the ground level," he said. "So, passengers who currently arrive have to go downstairs and then clear screening and then come back upstairs to exit the concourse.”
It’s also considered to be smaller by today’s standards.
“It was sized appropriately back when it was constructed,” Sterling said.
Sterling said federal funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help with the expansion project.
“Our regional airports service hundreds of flights weekly, and we’re glad this funding will help improve Norfolk International’s ability to process flights in a timely fashion, ensuring that the facility stays functional and safe,” said the lawmakers.
The improved facility will allow multiple airplanes to be processed at one time, enhance the flow of passenger screenings, and improve crew safety.
“It will enable U.S. Customs to access the facility with vehicles from the public side and avoid driving on the aircraft apron,” he said.
Sterling said the new facility will carry the airport far into the future. He said the project is currently in the design process. He hopes to see construction start by late summer or early fall of this year.