Philadelphia airport wants to let you say goodbye at the gate: What you need to know
It's a staple of romantic comedies: the tearful airport goodbye. Someone stands at the gate, someone's about to get on a plane; whatever happens next, it'll time for the credits to roll soon after.
But like many things in the movies, this scene does not happen in real life, at least not now. Post-9/11 airport security measures mean no one without a plane ticket is getting past a certain point in most airports.
Philadelphia International Airport is about to change that, though, with its Wingmate Pass, a way for non-ticketed airport visitors to get to areas of the terminals previously off-limits to people who aren't actually getting on a plane.
"Whether you're supporting family in their journey to the gate or planning a heartwarming surprise for a friend arriving on a domestic flight," the airport says, a Wingmate Pass will give visitors access to terminals' shops, restaurants and bars, as well as its art exhibitions and installations.
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How can I get a Wingmate Pass at Philly International?
Visitors can apply online for the pass through the PHL.org website, using their first and last names as they appear on their government-issued ID. They'll also need to include their gender, date of birth, email address and a reason for visiting. Applicants will receive an emailed confirmation once their application is received.
The Transportation Security Administration, which oversees airports' security, will review and approve or deny applications. Those who apply in advance will receive an email after midnight on the day of their visit with their application's status; people applying for same-day entrace will receive an email within 15 minutues.
What happens when I get to the airport?
If approved, visitors should go to the D/E or A-East security checkpoint with their approved digital Wingmate Pass and government-issued photo ID.
What's the small print stuff I need to know?
Wingmate Passes are only good at D/E and A-East security checkpoints, and TSA pre-check is not permitted for Wingmate Pass entry.
Visitors can only bring one personal item, such as a purse, small bag or briefcase, through security. Wingmate passholders are subject to all security regulations as regular passengers, so review all security reminders before going to the airport.
For more information, visit https://phl.org/wingmate or email wingmatepass@phl.org
Phaedra Trethan has been a reporter and editor in South Jersey since 2007 and has called the region home since 1971. Contact her at ptrethan@gannettnj.com, on Twitter @wordsbyPhaedra, or by phone at 856.486-2417.
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This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Wingmate Pass lets visitors access Philadelphia International Airport
