At Lafayette Regional Airport, the new TSA Line is almost ready but the Transportation Security Administration has caused delays in its opening.
According to Airport Executive Director Steven Picou, TSA has committed personnel and equipment but is caught up in a contractual issue.
At this time, travelers cannot yet take advantage of the new security line, but travelers are glad to see the new addition.
"I think it's great! For them to be proactive and open up another line, I'm happy for them," traveler Jacob Crawford said.
The new line is expected to cost about 75 cents per flier per flight or around $150,000.
The airport shared photos last week of the ongoing construction of the line. TSA screening equipment will be transferred from New Orleans International Airport for the line and additional personnel will be hired to assist Lafayette passengers.
Construction on an additional TSA line at the current LFT terminal is progressing! Drywall installation has begun, and construction will be complete within the next several weeks! 🛠️ pic.twitter.com/Sk85ld62tP
— Lafayette Airport (@LFTAirport) February 20, 2020
It is unclear how long TSA's work will take but LFT hopes it will be a bigger incentive for people to fly Lafayette. So far, some agree.
"It's convenient. I mean sometimes I think about going to New Orleans or Baton Rouge to fly out but the thought of after your trips over landing, and then adding another hour, you really want to fly through home," Crawford said.
Airport officials urge travelers to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before their scheduled flight time to get through security.
The new terminal at Lafayette Regional is still on track to open in September of 2021.