64
BAGGAGE    
September 2026      AirportImprovement.com
PGD
The project also included an additional chiller to keep the 
screening system and area cool during Florida’s hot summers. 
The new mechanical infrastructure was sized to accommodate 
future terminal expansion and support growth for years to come.
After construction, two federal government shutdowns delayed 
testing and commissioning; but Laroche took the schedule 
disruptions in stride. “Construction projects are easily delayed by 
any number of challenges,” he comments. “The shutdowns just 
added another layer of complexity to the project.”
Eyes on the Future
After the new baggage handling and screening system was fully 
operational, PGD decommissioned its old system and converted 
the space into an additional gate and concessions space. This 
allowed the airport to increase passenger capacity without adding 
new square footage. 
The project is also serving as the foundation for the broader 
Bailey Terminal Expansion, which will add 52,000 square feet of 
new gates, concessions, restrooms and passenger amenities. 
Scheduling the baggage handling system project first gave PGD 
more holdroom space to better accommodate passengers 
throughout subsequent improvements, Henriquez explains.  
Eliminating baggage bottlenecks, opening new gates and making 
additional terminal improvements are key components of the 
airport’s long-term plans to serve more passengers more efficiently.
Notably, PGD didn’t incur debt during the first phase.  
“We expanded without cost to our carriers,” Laroche emphasizes. 
“Funding through PFCs, grants and not taking on any debt positions 
us to make some big moves in the future if we have to.”
James Parish, chief executive officer of 
the Charlotte County Airport Authority, set 
the tone by emphasizing economy and 
function. From the very outset, his message 
to all involved was, “If this project wins an 
architectural award, we didn’t do our job!”
Awards may come; only time will tell. But 
even if they do not, this project will be a 
win for PGD passengers, who are already 
enjoying shorter waits at check-in. 
Planning & Environmental
Design & Engineering
Security, Support & Maintenance
Technology Solutions
LAX, Midfield Satellite Concourse
LAX Rent-A-Car Facility 
 v
Scan to connect with our
National Aviation Experts
JAMES PARISH

View this content as a flipbook by clicking here.