Want To Pass Airport Security for a ‘Love Actually’ Moment at the Gate? You Can in Pasco, Washington

Jul. 5—The Tri-Cities Airport is opening its secured terminal to 10 nonticketed passengers each day.

The PSC Pass program allows holders to pass through the TSA checkpoint and wander the terminal, which got a $42 million makeover in 2017.

The gate areas of airports have of course been restricted to all but airport staff, airline crews and ticketed passengers for security reasons since the advent of metal detectors, bomb sniffing dogs and other security measures designed to combat airborne terrorism in the post 9/11 era.

An entire generation has grown up saying "hello" and "good-bye" to loved ones at baggage claim areas and parking lots.

And Tri-Citians who don't travel often may welcome the chance to see the "new" terminal.

The Washington State Public Ports Association honored Pasco for the project by naming it the Public Port of the Year. A soaring atrium is home to a gift shop, coffee service, a bar and restaurant.

Though limited, the PSC Pass program reintroduces the idea of waiting at the arrival and departure gate, celebrated in the famous "love is everywhere" opening scene to the the Hugh Grant Christmas flick, "Love Actually."

PSC Pass holders can also take in the airport's food, shopping and art offerings, as well.

How it works

Besides capping the passes at 10 a day to start, individuals can only request one pass a month.

Pass holders must undergo the same TSA screening and inspection procedures as ticketed passengers. And regular parking rates apply.

"This program is a great opportunity for the entire community to enjoy our airport," said Buck Taft, who manages the airport, which is owned and operated by the Port of Pasco.

The airport planned to offer the pass program, allowed under TSA rules, prior to the pandemic. Taft said it is starting with just 10 people a day to ensure the system works and the added traffic isn't a burden on the TSA checkpoint.

If demand is strong, it could expand the number of passes. In the interim, it is a chance for visitors and families to use the terminal even if they don't have airplane tickets.

"With PSC Pass, hellos and goodbyes don't need to be said curbside anymore. People can greet or say farewell to their loved ones right at the gate. Then, they can enjoy a meal at one of our dining options or admire our newest art exhibit before heading home," he said.

See PSC Pass details at flytricities.com. All participants, including minors, must register. Applicants must provide their name, date of birth and gender as it appears on their identification. All applications are processed through a security system.

The Pasco airport is the third busiest airport in Washington and is on track to recover most of the traffic it lost during the pandemic shutdowns that hammered the travel industry.

Pasco saw boardings drop from a record 438,100 in 2019 to nearly 189,000 in 2020.

It is on track for about 418,000 boardings this year, based on an average growth of 7% recorded in the first five months of the year.

Pasco is served by Alelgiant, Avelo, Delta, Alaska and United.

This story was originally published July 5, 2023, 12:02 PM.

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