The Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers Airport (JAN) has announced the addition of a new line of equipment that’s aimed to beef up security but could increase wait times, leaving many travelers unhappy with the new machines.
On the heels of its busiest 12-month period in 15 years in 2023, JAN has added security measures such as K-9 units and doubling down on those traveling with firearms. The newest security measure is a fleet of state-of-the-art CT scanners, the latest in X-ray security systems.
In a Facebook post announcing the new machinery, JAN noted that the installation process could cause delays in the security line.
“With these upgrades, we strongly recommend arriving 2-3 hours early (during the installation process) to allow time for parking, luggage check, and security screening,” read the post.
But instead of a potential improvement in safety, most travelers decried the coming delays at an airport typically known for short security lines. Some were also concerned that JAN is neglecting upkeep of other amenities at the airport, such as malfunctioning escalators, in favor of the scanners.
JAN did not provide a timeline for how long the longer wait times will be around at Mississippi’s largest airport.
