We knew it was only a matter of time.
As of this writing, 29 airports in the U.S. allow unticketed passengers through TSA security. Here’s the list of them. I actually gave the experience a try a while back so I could meet my husband as he arrived back home to MCO, and it was actually kind of fun.
Ever since some U.S. airports began allowing unticketed passengers through security, I’ve checked, on and off, to see if any other countries were following through with similar programs. All I ever found were programs to accompany disabled people, and a handful of comments questioning safety and suggesting the U.S. was taking a huge risk by allowing visitors to the airside.
We were apparently the only country doing it.
Until now.
Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport began a similar program about two months ago.
They’re calling it the AirPass.
Originally scheduled to only last for 8 weeks, the program has been successful enough to be extended for another 5 weeks (through July 19).
Unlike the U.S.-based programs, which tend to be very similar to each other, AirPass has its own set of specific rules that differ from what we’re used to:
- You can get up to 5 hours access to the airport
- If you spend more than Dhs200 (about $54.50 USD), you’ll receive free airport parking
- The program is available exclusively to UAE nationals and residents (and yep, they’re checking. You have to upload a copy of your Emirates ID or your passport)
More information is available on this page of Zayed International Airport’s website.
Personally, I think this is great.
I had the opportunity to use one of the U.S. visitor-pass programs a while back so I could meet Joe when he arrived home at MCO, and I genuinely enjoyed the experience. There was something fun and nostalgic about being able to go airside again, browse the shops, watch planes come and go, and be waiting at the gate when a loved one arrived.
Sure, it’s not something I’d do every week. But as an occasional experience? It was surprisingly enjoyable.
That’s why it’s interesting to see another country finally give the concept a try.
The fact that Zayed International Airport has already extended the program beyond its original trial period suggests there’s real interest from the public. Whether that’s because people want to spend more time with family and friends, enjoy the airport amenities, or simply experience the excitement of being airside without flying, the demand appears to be there.
Hopefully this won’t be the last airport outside the U.S. to experiment with the idea.
Because sometimes airports aren’t just places to catch a flight. They’re also places to welcome someone home.
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