NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – Parking at the airport has been a little smoother and faster these last few weeks thanks to new technology getting rid of paper and hassle alike.
AI technology that registers a car’s license plate with the corresponding ticket is now the norm at the Charleston International Airport.
This is all part of the massive expansion projects coming to the airport in the next few years.
The airport is building a $348 million parking garage, expected to be fully complete in 2027. They also broke ground on a $100 million West Gates expansion to accommodate the increase in passenger demand and stimulate the city’s economic growth.
This specific project is being rolled out in phases and is expected to cost $1.8 million total once complete.
When a driver pulls up to the kiosk, the cameras equipped with artificial intelligence scan the license plate. The machine still gives drivers a ticket, but only just in case; it is not needed after entry.
When it’s time to head out, the total charge is already calculated and payable by tap or through a mobile app.
On top of all this, the airport launched a new website earlier this year with real-time updates about parking availability to make the process even easier.
These changes are meant to accommodate the more than 90 flights a day offered at the airport and the 6.2 million passengers that came through the airport last year.