New Requirement for International Travel to the United States

A new requirement for International travelers arriving from Visa Waiver Program countries began January 12, 2009. Those travelers will need to have advance travel authorization from U.S. Homeland Security before their trip.

• This authorization is free of charge - Please click here for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
• For more information about travel requiring Visas - Please click here for the U.S. Department of State website.

A New Runway has Opened at Dulles

On November 20, 2008 Runway 1 Left/19 Right opened for service. This fourth runway is the first new runway since the airport opened in 1962.  This is one of many projects which are part of the Dulles Development Program

• Click here to read the Press Release
• Click here for more information about this project

"Dulles Diamond" Checkpoint Now Open

A new checkpoint to speed experienced adult travelers through the security screening process is now open.  The checkpoint is downstairs on the Arrivals Level of the Main Terminal.

This new service will also help to reduce wait times at the Main Passenger Screening Checkpoint.

Please note the traveler criteria for using these lanes:

• Expert adult traveler (2 or more trips per month)
• Traveling alone
• Up to one carry-on item
• Security ready (3-1-1 for liquids/gels, laptops out of the case, shoes off)

Families, passengers traveling with children, pets, and other passengers with special needs should use the Main Passenger Screening Checkpoint on the ticketing level of the Main Terminal. Employees, including Flight Crew, must continue to use the Employee Screening Checkpoint.

Airport Tours Available to Student Groups

Student Tours of Ronald Reagan Washington National and Washington Dulles International Airports are offered year round on a first come, first served basis. Tours are not available on federal holidays or during the weeks of Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, and the 4th of July. At the present time, tours are restricted to student groups only. Click here for information and to apply

International Registered Traveler Pilot Program at Dulles

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has launched a pilot program at Dulles called Global Entry. It is designed to speed the process through Customs for U.S. citizens when returning to the United States. For more information and to apply, please click here.

CLEAR Registered Traveler Program Begins Operating

Verified Identity Pass Inc (CLEAR). began operating a Registered Traveler program at both Reagan National and Dulles International in March. The program is designed to enhance customer service and improve screening wait times. Enrollees in the program will have access to registered traveler security lanes at all other U.S. airports with similar programs. Please click here for more information or to enroll.

Advice for passengers about wait times in the Main Terminal

Please arrive early for your flight: 2 hours for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights, especially during these busiest times in the Main Terminal:

• 5:30am - 8:00am
• 11:00am - 1:00pm
• 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Volunteer at Your Local Airports!

There is a need for volunteers to work with Travelers Aid at Dulles International and Reagan National Airports. You can also choose to be a Mobile Guide, a new service in which you scout for travelers with questions and assist them. If you can spare 3 1/2 to 4 hours a week and would like to help air travelers, please contact Travelers Aid:

• To inquire about volunteer opportunities at Dulles please click here to send an email
• Click here for Travelers Aid assistance and paging information at Dulles