A large-area improved dielectric barrier glow discharge tunnel has been developed for modifying the surface of polyester film at atmospheric pressure with argon and oxygen gas mixtures. The electrical properties of the glow discharge tunnel were studied by simultaneous measurement of the voltage and current. In addition, the effect of the glow discharge tunnel treatment on the surface of polyester film were studied. The resultant modifications of the surface properties of the treated samples were investigated through scanning probe microscopy and contact angle measurement.