US Airport Now Allows You To Accompany Loved Ones To The Gate
Before the 9/11 tragedy, it was fairly standard for passengers’ loved ones to see them off at the gate. Of course, these days, airlines only allow ticketed passengers past security. But, now those traditions of giving a last hug to a loved one at the gate are returning. A US airport now allows non-ticketed visitors to accompany passengers. Ontario International Airport in California launched a visitor pass program to usher in the return of the tradition. According to tripsavvy, the limited available pass bears the name ONT+, and it’s free. Anyone wishing to get a pass simply applies online within seven days of the airport visit. Applicants provide basic information, and if approved, they receive the pass via email. The application asks for the terminal number and time of their visit. ONT plans to issue the passes on a first-come, first-served basis. And, printed passes are not allowed.
ONT+ works like a plane ticket. Visitors not traveling present the pass and photo ID at security. And, once they clear, they will enjoy access to gates, restaurants and retailers. The visitor pass program is one of the first in the country. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport also offers something similar. Admittedly, I miss those old carefree days of air travel. It was so much fun to walk off the plane to see family waiting to greet you at the gate. However, it’s a small price to pay to for safety and security following 9/11. And, as many commenters on social media mention, airports these days are already chaotic. And, seeing that this US airport now allows more visitors, it might just add to that frenzy. But, if the program works without compromising security, it could be a nice change. I suppose time will tell. And, it’s possible other airports follow suit.
These Are The Best Restaurants At Charlotte Douglas International Airport
The Washington Post recently compiled a list of the best restaurants in the 13 busiest airports in the country. Being an American Airlines hub, Charlotte definitely fits into that category. And as someone who loves to travel and fly, the list caught my attention. So what are the best restaurants to grab a bite between flights at Charlotte Douglas International Airport? For me, it usually comes down to what is closest to my gate. In 2019 I spent a lot of time at Bad Daddy’s because I kept flying out of the gates right there. I’m the get to the airport 2 hours early, get through security, find my gate, then grab a drink and depending on the time a meal kinda person.
The Best Restaurants At Charlotte Douglas International Airport
The Post named three spots at each airport: a sitdown, a quick service, and a wild card restaurant. And the three spots representing Charlotte are very, well Charlotte. The sit-down restaurant featured is Captain Jack’s Tavern in Terminal E. Captain Jack’s is the airport location of Olde Mecklenburg Brewery so you know you’re going to get a good beer, you can also choose from a selection of wraps, sandwiches, and other quick bites.
But don’t worry, we are going to get even more quintessentially Charlotte. The quick service the Washington Post chose as the best? Bojangles. The Charlotte-based fast food fried chicken chain takes the cake and is worth your time. Even the most rushed travelers should have time to grab some chicken, cajun fries, and of course a bo’berry biscuit. Did you even visit the south if you didn’t try it? There are two airport locations of Bojangles one in Concourse B and the other in “the Plaza”.
And finally, we have the “wild card”. And it happens to be where I stopped before a flight to Nashville back in June, The Broken Spoke. The Broken Spoke is a Charlotte-based distillery and at their airport location, you can get beer, wine, or liquor or a quick bite to eat. It’s located in Terminal A in a newly renovated part of the airport.
Of course, these are one opinion of the best restaurants but they are far from the only options to eat and drink while at Charlotte Douglas. And while all three of these are fantastic options, I wouldn’t tell you to walk to the opposite side of the airport to try one out. You can view a full list of the restaurants at the airport here. Keep reading to see the best spots at the other busiest airports as chances are you are flying into or connecting at one of them!
Debbie Nance is the afternoon co-host along with her husband on "The Charlie and Debbie Show" at WSOC, Country 1037 in Charlotte, North Carolina. She has been with the station for 18 years. Debbie is a CMA Award winner for Radio Personality of the Year. And, she has worked in radio for 40 years. Before her current afternoon position, Debbie spent more than a decade as co-host on morning shows in several markets across the Southeast. As a content creator for Country 1037, Debbie writes articles about food, new restaurants in the Carolinas and travel experiences.
