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With the introduction of the AeroTrain people mover and its distinct lighting features, the Washington Dulles International Airport advances into the 21st century
Do you recognize this scenario? You're running late for your flight. Between juggling your luggage and weaving between crowds of people in the same situation, beads of sweat form on your brow as you keep checking your watch. Every minute seems like an hour as you try to navigate to your departure gate. If you've ever been in this position, you can appreciate the importance of having a dependable system to get you quickly from point A to point B.
The Washington Dulles International Airport recognized such an issue when it made the decision to renovate and expand its space. In 1962, the airport was the first in the U.S. to be designed for commercial jet aircraft, with a single iconic terminal. The structure was intended to be compact, with "mobile lounges" or people movers linking the terminal to the aircraft. But as commercial aircraftincreased over the last few decades, so has the need for expanded facilities to accommodate the growing number of travelers.
The mobile lounges originally in place at the airport were "essentially large boxes on wheels," says Mitch Johnson, project manager of MCLA Architectural Lighting Design, Washington, D.C. "They were a very bulky way to move people." With the innovation of new transportation methods, Dulles Airport was ready for an upgrade.
That upgrade encompassed the renovation of the current airport space; the addition of a 620-ft-long area that includes two above-grade levels for arrivals and departures; two below-grade levels for baggage handling and security; and the most impressive architectural achievement-a new people mover, known as the AeroTrain. The AeroTrain is the latest automated train system connecting passengers in the loop between the Main Terminal and A, B and C departure gates and is part of...