Roberta Aguirre
There is a recent trend known as terminal tourism, where people visit airports to hang out, dine at restaurants, shop, or watch planes. While some people find this concept odd, many airports have adopted programs to support it. For example, Tulsa International Airport in Oklahoma offers a visitor pass that allows non-ticketed visitors to enter the terminal. Similarly, Orlando International Airport has launched a day-pass program that lets visitors access Terminal C, which features retail stores and dining options. These initiatives aim to encourage locals to explore the renovated airport spaces and increase foot traffic. However, critics argue that allowing terminal tourists can lead to longer security lines and more crowded spaces for actual travelers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name of the trend | Terminal tourism |
| Purpose | Dine at restaurants, shop, or just hang out |
| Security | Non-ticketed people are allowed past security checkpoints at some airports |
| Examples of airports with such programs | Orlando International Airport, Tulsa International Airport, Ontario International Airport, Capital Region International Airport, John Wayne Airport |
| Perks of hanging out at the airport | Food, internet, quiet corners, restaurants, shops, watching planes |
| Downsides | Longer lines at security, limited access to terminals |
| Other activities | Parking outside the airport fence to watch planes take off |
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What You'll Learn
- Some airports have adopted programs to support terminal tourism
- You can enter airports without a boarding pass, but not past security
- Some airports allow non-travellers to escort friends to the gate
- Day passes are available at some airports for non-travellers
- Some smaller airports let you park outside to watch planes take off
Some airports have adopted programs to support terminal tourism
Terminal tourism is a recent trend where people go to an airport to hang out and spend time, despite not having any travel plans. Some common reasons for engaging in terminal tourism include access to shopping and restaurants, aircraft spotting, and accompanying travelling family members. While some people view the concept of terminal tourism negatively, many airports have adopted programs that support it.
In the United States, the concept of terminal tourism was first accepted at Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) in 2017. This marked a shift from the restrictions put in place after the September 11 attacks, which limited access to airports only to ticketed passengers and employees. Since Pittsburgh International Airport adopted this program, several other airports in the US have followed suit, including Tampa International Airport (TPA), Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). These airports allow non-ticketed individuals, or "terminal tourists", to pass through security checkpoints and access restaurants, shops, and other facilities within the airport.
Some people may view terminal tourism as an inconvenience, especially for actual passengers who have to navigate through crowds of terminal tourists. Additionally, the presence of more people in the airport can lead to longer lines at security checkpoints and increased competition for resources such as outlets and seating. However, it should be noted that terminal tourists are still subject to security screenings and other standard airport procedures.
Despite the potential drawbacks, the growing trend of terminal tourism has led to the development of various airport terminals programs aimed at improving the overall airport experience for all users. One such program is the FAA's Airport Terminals Program (ATP), which provides funding for terminal development projects that address ageing infrastructure, enhance sustainability, improve accessibility, and create jobs. By investing in airport infrastructure, these programs aim to make it faster and easier for all individuals, including terminal tourists, to navigate the airport while also supporting local economies.
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You can enter airports without a boarding pass, but not past security
In most airports, you can enter the public areas without a boarding pass, but you won't be able to get past security. Some airports have introduced 'Visitor Pass' programs that allow a limited number of visitors to go through security and navigate the airport freely. These passes are typically applied for in advance, and some airports limit the number of passes available per day.
At some airports, you can enter the lobby or hang out in the baggage claim and ticketing areas without a boarding pass. However, you won't be able to pass through security and enter the airport terminal without a valid ticket or boarding pass due to security concerns. There are exceptions, such as when accompanying a minor, elderly individual, or someone with a disability, but you will still need an escort or visitor pass.
Some smaller airports may have no security, and at some larger airports, it is possible to go to the gate without a ticket. Additionally, certain airports have implemented new technologies, such as Credential Authentication Technology (CAT), which allow travellers to confirm their flight details without scanning their boarding pass.
Therefore, while you can generally enter airports without a boarding pass, your access will be limited, and you will not be able to pass through security and enter the secure areas of the airport without a valid ticket or special pass.
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Some airports allow non-travellers to escort friends to the gate
While some people may enjoy spending time at the airport, others may find it strange. However, there is a growing trend of "terminal tourism", where people choose to hang out at the airport. Many airports have adopted programs that support this concept, allowing non-ticketed people past security checkpoints to access restaurants, shops, and other amenities. This can cause longer lines at security, impacting actual passengers.
Some airports have implemented specific programs for non-travellers to access certain areas. For example, the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program at Orlando International Airport allows non-ticketed visitors to explore Terminal C, but they must have a digital pass and no hand-carried luggage. The SEA Visitor Pass Program offers 300 passes per day, with visitors entering between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. and the ability to re-enter and exit as desired. The LAN Visitor Pass Program at Capital Region International Airport in Lansing, Michigan, welcomes up to 25 non-ticketed visitors per day for up to four hours.
At some airports, non-travellers can escort friends or family to the gate. This was a common practice before the 9/11 incident, but security measures have since tightened. Some people have shared experiences of obtaining gate passes or printing off boarding passes to access secure areas and accompany their loved ones. However, post-9/11, some airports like RDU's airside in North Carolina closed their secure areas to non-travellers.
While some airports allow non-travellers to access certain areas with passes or by accompanying travellers, it is important to respect the purpose of the airport as a transportation hub and not hinder the experience of actual passengers.
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Day passes are available at some airports for non-travellers
There is a recent trend known as "terminal tourism," where people go to an airport to hang out and spend time. While some people may find this unusual, many airports have adopted programs that support this concept. These programs allow non-ticketed people to go past security checkpoints and access restaurants, shops, and other airport facilities.
One example of such a program is the DTW Destination Pass at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW). This program allows non-travellers to pass through security and access both the McNamara and Evans terminals. The DTW Destination Pass can be applied for and used on the same day between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. by scanning a U.S. government-issued ID at a kiosk.
Another airport offering a similar program is the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) with its PHL Wingmate Guest Pass. This program allows non-travellers to access the airport for its amenities or to accompany loved ones. The PHL Wingmate Guest Pass offers dining and shopping deals and can be applied for up to seven days in advance or on the same day.
The Orlando International Airport (MCO) also has a guest pass program called ExperienceMCO. This program allows non-travelling guests to visit Terminal C, which features 23 eateries and a variety of shops. Visitors can apply for the ExperienceMCO pass up to a week in advance through the airport's website.
While these programs provide an opportunity for non-travellers to explore and enjoy airport amenities, they have also faced some criticism. Some travellers argue that having additional people at the airport can lead to longer lines at security and increased competition for resources like outlets and seating. Despite this, airport authorities have noted the success and demand for these programs, indicating a desire from the public to utilize airports beyond just travel purposes.
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Some smaller airports let you park outside to watch planes take off
While hanging out at the airport may not be everyone's idea of fun, some people enjoy it. This phenomenon is known as "terminal tourism," where people go to an airport to hang out, dine, shop, or watch planes. While larger airports have restaurants outside of the secured area, you won't be able to get past security without a boarding pass. However, if you're content with staying outside the airport, some smaller airports will let you park outside the property fence or on adjacent roads to watch planes take off and land. This can be a fun and unique way to spend an afternoon, especially for aviation enthusiasts or those who live nearby.
Of course, each airport is different, and it's always a good idea to do some research in advance. Some airports have multiple Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs) with various parking options and fees. You can usually find this information online, on airport diagrams, or through a quick phone call or email to the airport. Fees for transient parking at larger airports typically range from $10 to $20 per day, while smaller airports may charge a small fee for overnight parking, often waived if you purchase fuel.
If you're planning to drive to the airport just to watch planes, it's essential to be mindful of the potential challenges. Finding parking at busy airports can be difficult, and you may end up having to park with an FBO, which can be costly. Additionally, airports with multiple FBOs may require you to navigate which one to choose and which parking lot to use.
While hanging out at the airport may not be a typical pastime for most, it can be an enjoyable experience for those who are interested. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or simply looking for a unique spot to relax, knowing that some smaller airports allow outside parking to watch planes can open up a new way to spend your day. So, if you're considering a visit to the airport, remember to do your research, be mindful of potential parking challenges, and always be pleasant and polite when inquiring about parking options.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can. Some airports have adopted programs that support this concept. Many airports allow non-ticketed people past security checkpoints so that they may dine at restaurants, shop, or just hang out.
Yes, some airports require you to apply for a pass to enter the airport. For example, the Tulsa International Airport (TUL) Visitor Pass allows anyone to enter the terminal without a ticket. You can apply online for the same day or up to seven days in advance.
You can enjoy the food, shop, or just watch the planes. Some larger airports have restaurants outside of the secured airside.
Yes, you can. Some people have reported sleeping at the airport while waiting for their layover.
Yes, you can just walk into the airport. However, you won't be able to get past security without a boarding pass or an approved visitor pass.
