Clear testing new curb-to-gate premium service
Clear members may soon have an even more exclusive option for navigating the airport.
The company, which provides expedited identify verification and line-skipping access at dozens of U.S. airport security checkpoints, is testing out a new premium service that would start curbside and end at the gate.
TPG's Summer Hull was the first to spot the new service when she got an email notification from Clear this weekend.
The paid program for members is called "Clear Premium," according to the notice.
Under the exclusive tier of service, members would get a personal guide — called an ambassador by Clear — that would escort travelers from curbside all the way to their gate. This means the ambassador would assist flyers with bag check, through the Clear lane and security and then help with navigating airport concourses to the gate.
A single reservation costs $79, according to the alert Summer received. The notice mentioned that Clear currently has a limited number of reservations for this service.
Clear confirms this program is in the pilot phase, but the company hopes to expand the premium service to other airports in the future. It is currently only available at Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Clear's more traditional service allows travelers to head to an exclusive area at many major U.S. airports rather than waiting in a security line. A kiosk quickly verifies members' identities using biometrics like a facial scan. Then, a Clear ambassador escorts the member to the front of the TSA line to undergo TSA screening: either the front of the TSA PreCheck line for Clear members who also have PreCheck or the front of the standard line for non-PreCheck members.
Clear also provides its services at a number of non-airport venues like stadiums and arenas.
This Clear Premium service would seem to provide members with a more enhanced option for navigating the airport. Given that the program is being introduced in Orlando where many families travel throughout the year, it could be a way to provide a better airport experience for people with children.
TPG Tip: If you want to try Clear and sign up using TPG's special offer, you can save $50 on the first year's membership.
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