A nostalgic pre-9/11 airport tradition — saying goodbye to loved ones right at the gate or greeting arrivals as they step off the plane — is making a comeback at select U.S. airports through new visitor pass programs.
However, travelers and families in Atlanta will have to wait, as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the world’s busiest airport, is not currently participating in these initiatives.
U.S. Airports Increasingly Allowing Gate ‘Guest Passes’
Several airports nationwide have introduced “guest passes” allowing non-ticketed visitors to apply in advance, undergo TSA vetting, and pass through security to access gates, shops, and restaurants airside.
Oakland International Airport (OAK) in California is the latest to launch such a program this week, joining others like Cleveland Hopkins (Hangout Pass), San Antonio (SAT Pass), Kansas City (Guest Pass), Philadelphia (Wingmate Pass), and Detroit Metropolitan (Destination Pass)…