Friday, February 28, 2025
Since its introduction on November 1, 2023, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) has witnessed remarkable success with its innovative Wingmate Guest Pass Program. More than 10,300 individuals have taken advantage of this free offering, allowing them to spend quality time with loved ones before flights, surprise arriving friends and family members, or simply explore PHL’s extensive dining, shopping, and art exhibits—all without needing a plane ticket.
The Wingmate Guest Pass has revolutionized the airport experience, enabling non-ticketed guests to access secured areas of PHL. This has not only allowed for emotional farewells and heartfelt reunions at the gates but also granted visitors the opportunity to indulge in PHL’s impressive array of food and shopping options. The program has resonated particularly well with those looking to maximize their time with traveling loved ones or simply explore the vibrant airport environment.
“The feedback we have received from Wingmate users has been phenomenal,” said PHL Director of Marketing and Branding Megan O’Connell. “Guests have been able to meet up with friends they haven’t seen in years or take an older relative to their gate and see them off —things they weren’t able to do before PHL offered this amenity.”
To enhance convenience, PHL has expanded the Wingmate Guest Pass’s usability across more security checkpoints. Initially, non-ticketed guests could only enter through the A-East or D/E checkpoints. However, the program now supports entry at all TSA non-Pre-Check security checkpoints, including Terminals A-West, A-East, B, D/E, and F. This broader access significantly improves visitor flow, offering greater flexibility for those planning to meet friends and family or enjoy PHL’s amenities.
“We thank the TSA for their partnership with the Wingmate program, from its launch to working with us on the checkpoint expansion,” said O’Connell. “Their collaboration has helped make memorable Wingmate moments possible.”
Beyond access, the Wingmate Guest Pass also includes exclusive offers at select PHL Food & Shops locations. Guests can explore a variety of dining and retail options, benefiting from special discounts that are otherwise unavailable to ticketed passengers. This added incentive has been a key driver behind the program’s growing popularity.
Nonticketed guests interested in using the Wingmate Guest Pass can easily apply online, making the process both simple and convenient. Here’s how it works:
Feedback from users of the Wingmate Guest Pass has been overwhelmingly positive. Visitors have praised the convenience of spending extra time with family and friends at the gate, as well as the opportunity to explore PHL’s expansive shopping and dining selections. The ease of the digital application process and the flexibility of entry points have also contributed to the program’s success.
Philadelphia International Airport’s Wingmate Guest Pass is setting a new standard for non-ticketed visitor access, offering a unique way for loved ones to connect while enhancing the overall airport experience. By allowing nonticketed visitors to enjoy the airport’s vibrant atmosphere, PHL is not only enhancing customer satisfaction but also driving additional revenue through its concessions.
With over 10,300 visitors since its launch, the Wingmate Guest Pass Program is proving to be a game-changer in airport accessibility and guest experience. PHL officials are continuously monitoring feedback and exploring ways to further enhance the program. Future updates could include expanded security checkpoint options or additional exclusive offers at PHL Food & Shops.
As Philadelphia International Airport continues to innovate and enhance guest experiences, the Wingmate Guest Pass stands out as a pioneering initiative that other airports may look to emulate. Its success demonstrates a growing demand for more inclusive and flexible airport access, making travel more convenient and enjoyable for everyone.
“You don’t need to have a person traveling to use a Wingmate Pass,” said O’Connell. “We had some great restaurants and shops open at the airport in 2024 and are looking forward to Oyster House, Federal Donuts and others coming to PHL this year. A Wingmate Pass is a great way to access our award-winning concessions.”
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