Starting this week, people can now join their loved ones past the security checkpoint at Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport.
The new OAK Guest Pass program began on Monday, December 15.
‘Non-passengers’ can now apply online for security clearance up to seven days in advance of the day they want to visit the airport.
“We’re very excited to be one of the first in the country to have the guest pass,” said Kristi McKenney, Executive Director of the Port of Oakland.
Those non-passengers, McKenney explained, will be able to meet and greet their loved ones, drop somebody off all the way to the gate, or even just come in for a meal or a drink.
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One of the newest places to grab a meal and drink at Oakland San Francisco Bay is Oakland-based restaurant District.
Jon D’Angelica, President of District Restaurant Group, applauded airports for including more local fare.
“It gives you a flavor of what that town it is that you’re flying into and out of,” said D’Angelica.
To get a guest pass, you can apply online up to seven days in advance. You can apply the day of also, but keep in mind there is a maximum capacity for the day and each time slot. If TSA approves of your application, you’ll get a OAK Guest Pass in your mail inbox. You show that pass at the TSA checkpoint.
Passengers are already imagining the ways they can use the airport’s newest feature.
“I like that, because if you have kids, older folks or a wife,” said Michael Mancuso on his way to Hawaii. “If you have to say goodbye to your wife for a month, I’d want to walk her in here.”
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These new additions and changes come as OAK is seeing a decline in passengers, something officials claim are happening all across California due to less business travel.
The recent airport name change hasn’t boosted numbers.
“However, the good news is that we’re looking at some promising statistics coming out for October,” said McKenney. “Fingers crossed.”
Oakland leaders are hopeful that with each new addition, whether it’s a new restaurant or a feature like the OAK Guest Pass, Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport will establish its reputation as the Bay Area gateway.
“That decision was made of course, it’s going to generate more people coming into Oakland’s airport,” said Mayor Barbara Lee of the new guest pass program. “We’re still on the move. We want to make Oakland the most convenient airport, which it is, but people need to know.”
SFO and SJC airports say they are looking into similar programs like OAK’s.
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