FlySide Pass Draws Over 500 Visitors in Less Than Two Weeks
Sunport kicks off Saturday savings with 10% off at all concessions throughout December
ALBUQUERQUE — The Albuquerque International Sunport is celebrating early success with its new ABQ FlySide Pass, a free program that allows nontravelers (those without an airline ticket) to enter the airside of the terminal through the TSA checkpoint and explore all the Sunport has to offer. Since the program launched on November 25, more than 500 passes have been issued, averaging around 50 approvals per day and positioning Albuquerque as one of the fastest-growing programs of its kind.
With the FlySide Pass, nontravelers 18 and older* can:
• Accompany or meet travelers at the gate.
• Dine, shop and experience the Sunport’s reimagined spaces featuring locally made New Mexican products, favorite dishes, and restaurants alongside national brands.
• Explore the Sunport’s art collection, cultural exhibits, and live music.
This month the Sunport is also launching Support Local Sunport Business Saturdays, a new traveler-appreciation holiday promotion. Every Saturday in December, Sunport concession merchants will offer 10% off purchases for both travelers and FlySide Pass visitors, showcasing the vibrant local businesses that make the Sunport unique.
“The FlySide Pass is opening our airport in a whole new way,” said Mayor Keller. “It gives families, friends, and visitors the chance to explore the Sunport’s local flavors, art, and experiences. And with Support Local Sunport Business Saturdays, the community can enjoy savings while discovering all that makes our Sunport so special.”
Visitors can request a FlySide Pass up to seven days in advance, with same-day approvals often delivered within minutes. On the day of their visit, pass holders go through the TSA security checkpoint just like ticketed passengers.
“The FlySide Pass is bringing the community into the heart of the Sunport,” said Aviation Acting Director Manny Manriquez. “The response has exceeded our expectations, and we look forward to welcoming even more community members to explore our concessions, art, and reimagined spaces.”
The FlySide Pass is free and simple to use. Visitors apply online, receive quick TSA approval, and gain access to explore the city’s reimagined Sunport. Learn more and apply today at: https://www.abqsunport.com/flyside-pass/.
*The FlySide Pass currently requires applicants to be 18 or older. TSA is preparing a federal system firmware update that will enable minors to participate. The Sunport will announce this expansion as soon as the update is complete.
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About the Albuquerque International Sunport
Owned and operated by the City of Albuquerque’s Aviation Department, The Albuquerque International Sunport is New Mexico’s largest commercial airport, welcoming over 5.4 million passengers each year. Served by seven major carriers, three cargo carriers and one commuter airline, the Sunport offers nonstop service between ABQ and 32 destinations, with worldwide connectivity. The Albuquerque International Sunport is the Gateway of New Mexico.
