Airport News
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has enlisted the help of more than 1,600 community members to test operations at the new Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal, which is due to open on 16 May 2012.
The airport ran a number of different scenarios at the simulated opening on Wednesday (2 May) that focused on tenants, the training of employees, standard operational procedures, first responders and building systems.
The simulation involved all airport stakeholders, such as airlines, concessionaires, US Customs and Border Protection and the Transportation Security Administration, which performed simulated screenings.
“The simulation was designed to test the new terminal’s operational readiness and to identify areas in which to concentrate our efforts in order to ensure a successful opening on May 16,” aviation deputy general manager Balram Bheodari said. “We appreciate the feedback we received and will continue striving to meet international travelers’ needs and tastes for years to come.”
Volunteers, which included adults over 65, people with disabilities and families with children, undertook exercises including ticketing/check-in run-throughs, baggage checks (each participant was asked to bring two pieces of luggage), security screenings, emergency response drills and the US Customs and Border Protection process. Participants also were asked to locate various amenities, such as specific concessions or airline lounges.
At the conclusion, participants were asked to fill out surveys to gauge the experience and provide their feedback. “We are grateful to the many volunteers who participated in the simulation, and we appreciate them for taking time out of their busy schedules to help us better serve our customers,” Bheodari said.
