74 SECURITY September 2026 AirportImprovement.com MCO integrated cellular networks that allow the displays to receive data at airports where Wi-Fi was not a feasible option. Saefix Chief Technology Officer Rick Adams emphasizes that site inspections at each airport were vital because the installation conditions were very diverse, connecting through the airport’s Wi-Fi network or via cellular service. “We had to develop a flexible solution for connectivity, sometimes relying on cellular wireless as a backup to Wi-Fi if it made sense to avoid the challenges of onboarding a new system onto an airport’s existing network,” Adams elaborates. “We also had to be conscious of cybersecurity constraints and ensuring proper controls are in place to mitigate risks for the airport.” Connecting via the Wi-Fi network proved to be the best option for MCO. “It’s well suited for dynamic environments like security checkpoints because there is no need for data cabling and it makes deploying messages easier,” says Lyttle. K2 Security Screening Group provided project management services for the nationwide program, including assembling and installing the tower displays. “Even though these systems are relatively small, there are very important conversations to have with local TSA officials at each airport as well as airport authority representatives to make sure when we actually come to deploy, we have a safe and appropriate way to get the system set up,” says Mara Winn, vice president of aviation for K2. The idea, Winn explains, was to be comprehensive about the prep work so installations could be as plug-and-play as possible. According to Paquette, most installations were completed in two to three days. K2 hosted weekly calls with program partners to share information and ensure participants had details for installations at each location. Synect created an online team site for sharing notes and documents. “There were a lot of balls in the air and a lot of communication happening,” Winn relates. “There were, inevitably, side conversations, and we had to make sure all that knowledge was fed into the community notes.” Expected Impact Fiely notes that TSA’s nationwide program could have a significant effect, likening the message exposure to that of a Super Bowl ad that runs day after day. Synect Marketing Director Alison Weber stresses the functional impact for airports and passengers. “TSA screened more than 18.5 million people during Independence Day week, and passenger volumes will continue to rise, especially with a mega-decade of major events coming to the U.S.,” says Weber. “Engaging passengers and helping them prepare for screening can have a significant operational impact. Imagine if we could save just a few seconds per passenger. Across millions of travelers, those seconds could add up quickly.” “You don’t have to spend tens of millions of dollars to have an impact,” adds Faith Varwig, managing principal at Faith Group. “With the right approach, the right team of people, and the right products and services, you can deliver a huge impact. “For our company and Synect, this is a small project that will have a big impact,” she continues. “We design thousands of digital EVERY CONNECTION CREATES IMPACT. WE ENGINEER WHAT MAKES IT POSSIBLE. Designing the connections behind a better airport experience. For more information contact Info@faithgroupllc.com or visit us online at FaithGroupLLC.com Site Readiness Design Integration Project Management FAITH VARWIG RICK ADAMS ALISON WEBER The displays also provide information to help guide passengers through TSA checkpoints.
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