NORFOLK— Norfolk International Airport recently invited guests to a first look inside its new international arrivals facility.
The new two-story, 26,000-square- foot Federal Inspection Services (FIS) building’s open floor plan and floor-to-ceiling windows give arriving travelers a welcoming aesthetic that seamlessly integrates many of the latest security and processing efficiencies utilized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Primary processing and baggage claim occur on the same level as travelers’ arrival gate allowing for easy movement from aircraft through screening before exiting the FIS facility to reach ground transportation options.
On the building’s first floor, a new Global Entry office with adjacent parking will allow those enrolling in the widely popular trusted traveler program to easily move in and out of their interview appointments without having to enter ORF’s terminals or parking garages.
The $31 million project, including design and constructions costs, required approximately 18 months to complete. It was funded in part by $13.5 million in federal support arranged by members of Virginia’s U.S. Congressional delegation.
Reps. Bobby Scott and Jen Kiggans were present for the ribbon-cutting alongside Norfolk Airport Authority Board Chairman Peter Decker, III; Matthew F. Suarez, Director, Field Operations for U.S. Customs and Border Protection; and Norfolk Airport Authority President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Perryman.
In January, Norfolk International welcomed its first scheduled international nonstop flight in nearly 25 years with the introduction of weekly service to Cancun, Mexico. The airport is seeking additional nonstop international routes, including potential transatlantic flights to key hubs in Europe. All commercial flights that require customs clearance will make use of the new FIS located off of gate A1.
W. M. Jordan Company provided Construction Management at Risk services for the new FIS with design work from Gresham Smith. The firms are also engaged in the development of a three-gate expansion of ORF’s Concourse A that is scheduled to open for passengers later this spring.
ORF continues to be in the midst of a nearly $1 billion capital improvement program.
Learn more about the airport’s current and upcoming projects at TransformORF.com.